The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, deployed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, Shehu Nadada, to Imo State. He did so to coordinate the search-and-rescue operation for 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps members and other passengers.
Gunmen abducted the victims on Thursday, October 1, 2026, around Umunoha along the Owerri-Onitsha Road. The Force Public Relations Officer, Anietie Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday.
Shehu Nadada arrived in the state with two Commissioners of Police. He then conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the situation and the ongoing rescue efforts. In addition, he reviewed the operational strategies, deployment of personnel and operational assets. He also issued further directives aimed at strengthening the coordinated response.
The assessment took place alongside the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso. It also involved the Commissioner of Police, Federal Operations, Akpan Anifiok, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Police Mobile Force, other service commanders and members of the management team of the Imo State Police Command.
Anietie Iniedu stated that the search-and-rescue operation had been intensified. Additional tactical teams and operational assets were deployed across identified areas. He added that the operation was supported by intelligence-led tracking of the suspects and coordinated efforts with sister security agencies.
Shehu Nadada assured members of the public that the police remained committed to securing the safe rescue of the abducted persons. “The Nigeria Police Force is committed to securing the safe rescue of the 20 abducted persons and will sustain the operation until the mission is successfully concluded,” Anietie Iniedu quoted him as saying.
