A major police operation is underway in Imo State after 19 prospective NYSC members were abducted.
The students were reportedly taken along the Owerri-Onitsha Road on October 1, Nigeria’s Independence Day.
The incident has triggered a fresh search operation as security agencies work to locate the victims.
Following the directive of Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Operations, Shehu Umar Nadada, arrived in Imo State.
Nadada visited the area on Friday to assess the situation and guide the ongoing search-and-rescue operation.
He was joined by the Imo State Commissioner of Police and other senior security commanders.
The team reviewed the operation and assessed efforts to rescue the abducted corps members and other passengers.
The victims were reportedly travelling along the Owerri-Onitsha Road when they were intercepted.
The abduction occurred between Ogbaku and Umunoha communities in Mbaitoli Local Government Area.
The victims were then reportedly taken into a nearby forest.
The operation has attracted attention from residents living around the area where the incident occurred.
Residents welcomed the security response and expressed hope that the abducted passengers would return safely.
The Imo police rescue operation is expected to continue until the victims are located.
The police leadership is also working with other security agencies involved in the search.
The development comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of travellers along major roads in the Southeast.
Authorities have not provided further details on the identities or current condition of the victims.
