IGP Deploys DIG, 2 CPs to Imo as Police Intensify Search for Abducted Corps Members, 18 Others

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has deployed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Shehu Umar Nadada, to Imo State to coordinate efforts to rescue 20 people abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway.

The victims, including prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, were reportedly abducted on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Ekpiedu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja.

According to the statement, Nadada arrived in Imo State with two Commissioners of Police and conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the incident and ongoing search-and-rescue operations.

He also reviewed the deployment of personnel and operational assets, while issuing further directives to strengthen the coordinated response.

The assessment was carried out alongside the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso; Commissioner of Police in charge of Federal Operations, Akpan Anifiok; the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Police Mobile Force; other service commanders and members of the Imo State Police Command’s management team.

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The police said the search-and-rescue operation had been intensified, with additional tactical teams and operational assets deployed to identified areas.

The operation is being supported by intelligence-led tracking of the suspects, while the police are working with other security agencies to secure the release of the abducted persons and arrest those responsible.

Nadada assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force would sustain the operation until the 20 victims were safely rescued.

He appealed to members of the public to remain calm and vigilant, urging anyone with credible information that could assist the operation to contact the police or the nearest security formation.

The police assured that all information provided would be treated with strict confidentiality and said further updates would be released as the operation progresses.

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