Troops rescue 10 vicims including prospective NYSC members abducted in Imo

The incident occurred as prospective corps members were travelling to various orientation camps for the commencement of the NYSC Batch C Stream One exercise.

Security Forces Launch Rescue Operation

Following the attack, troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade under Operation UDO KA responded to the incident and launched a search-and-rescue operation in collaboration with other security agencies.

Personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police Force and Department of State Services (DSS) also participated in the operation to locate the abducted passengers and apprehend the attackers.

The coordinated operation resulted in the rescue of 10 victims which included prospective corps members.

The rescued victims were subsequently handed over to the DSS for debriefing and further assistance.

The security agencies have continued efforts to locate other victims who may still be in captivity and track the suspected perpetrators.

Police authorities said the Commissioner of Police in Imo State and other security commanders visited the scene to assess the situation and provide operational direction.

The affected section of the road was also reopened to traffic, with security personnel deployed to protect commuters.

Investigation Continues

The latest incident has raised fresh security concerns along the busy Onitsha-Owerri route, particularly as thousands of prospective NYSC members travel across the country for their orientation programmes.

The security agencies have not disclosed the identities of the rescued victims or provided further details about the suspected attackers.

Authorities said operations were ongoing to rescue any remaining abductees and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

The incident underscores the security challenges facing travellers on major highways, with authorities expected to sustain patrols and intelligence-led operations to safeguard commuters and prospective corps members travelling to orientation camps.