Twenty prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members abducted in Imo State have regained their freedom following a coordinated security operation involving the military, Department of State Services (DSS), police and other security agencies.
The victims, who were travelling from Ibadan to NYSC orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states, were abducted last Thursday while passing through Imo State.
The kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of N50 million for each victim before subsequently reducing the amount to N5 million per victim.
However, the security agencies moved to secure the release of the prospective corps members, who were eventually freed alongside another hostage held by the abductors.
The operation involved personnel from the military, DSS, police and other security agencies working together to locate and rescue the victims.
The 20 NYSC members and the additional hostage are reportedly now receiving medical attention at the DSS Hospital in Owerri.
Their release brings relief to their families and relatives, who had been anxiously awaiting news of their whereabouts since the abduction.
The incident had sparked concerns over the safety of prospective corps members travelling to orientation camps ahead of the commencement of their national service.
The successful rescue also underscores the importance of coordinated intelligence and joint operations among Nigeria’s security agencies in tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The authorities are expected to provide further details on the circumstances surrounding the abduction and the operation that led to the victims’ release.
