By Reloaded News Desk
Twenty prospective National Youth Service Corps members abducted along the Owerri–Onitsha Expressway in Imo State have regained their freedom following a coordinated rescue operation by security agencies.
The victims were abducted on October 1 while travelling from Ibadan, Oyo State, to NYSC orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states.
The rescue operation involved personnel of the Department of State Services, the military and the Nigeria Police Force. The freed corps members are currently receiving medical attention at a DSS facility in Imo State.
The successful operation brings an end to days of anxiety for the victims’ families, who had been demanding urgent action following the abduction.
Security agencies had intensified the search after the initial rescue of 10 victims on the day of the attack. The operation was subsequently expanded after it became clear that 20 prospective corps members remained in captivity.
Police authorities had earlier deployed additional tactical personnel and operational assets to Imo State, while intelligence-led tracking and drone surveillance were used in efforts to locate the abductors and their hideout.
The Minister of Youth Development; Ayo Olawande has expressed happiness over the successful rescue, welcoming the return of the young Nigerians who were on their way to commence national service.
The development is particularly significant for the youth sector, coming amid renewed concerns over the safety of young Nigerians travelling to NYSC orientation camps.
The rescue has also provided relief to families who endured days of uncertainty over the fate of their children.
Attention is now expected to turn to the security investigation and efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the abduction.
The successful recovery of all 20 prospective corps members also highlights the importance of sustained intelligence-led cooperation among Nigeria’s security agencies in protecting young people travelling across the country.
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