Police Commissioner Audu Bosso announced today that a drone‑sailed sighting has located a camp where 19 NYSC recruits were allegedly taken by gunmen in Imo state. However, the police say the site is mined with improvised explosive devices, preventing a rescue attempt.
Kidnap details: The recruits were traveling from Ibadan to the NYSC orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom on Thursday when gunmen attacked their bus near Umunoha, Imo. Thirty‑nine youths were held captive, with 19 still being monitored on the mined ground.
The kidnappers are believed to have demanded a ransom of 50 million naira ($37,680). Omotosho Adewale, the father of one abducted child, stated he has not eaten for three days and urges the government for intervention.
The NYSC is a compulsory one‑year programme for most Nigerian university graduates, intended to promote national unity and community service. Recent abductions have raised concerns about the safety of corps members, prompting the programme to consider limiting placements in high‑risk areas.
Authorities have reiterated that paying ransoms is illegal and have warned families against complying due to increased vulnerability. Despite this, many relatives feel pressed by the fear that their children will stay captive indefinitely.
The police have deployed bulldozers and armored vehicles in preparation for a rescue mission, but the presence of mines could turn the operation into a perilous firefight. The situation remains fluid, with updates expected as negotiations and clearance proceed.
