Abducted Corps members: IGP deploys top DIG, CPs to Imo

The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu, has dispatched senior police officers to Imo to conduct a search and rescue mission for 20 abducted prospective corps members. The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, reported this in a statement to newsmen on Saturday in Owerri. According to the statement, Disu ordered DIG Shehu Nadada, who oversees operations, to immediately assume command in Owerri following a highway ambush on October 1.

The victims and other passengers were abducted and forced into the bush along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Mbaitoli Local Government Area.

Nadada, alongside two Commissioners of Police, arrived in Imo to conduct a field assessment and review the deployment of police resources in key criminal hideouts. The assessment was carried out jointly with the Imo State Police Commissioner, Mr Audu Bosso, and the Federal Operations chief, Mr Akpan Anifiok, among other commanders.

The search-and-rescue operation has been further escalated with additional tactical teams and intelligence-led tracking of the suspects. Nadada has assured the public that the police remain determined to secure the safe rescue of all 20 victims and apprehend the perpetrators, emphasizing the force's commitment to the operation until completion.

The statement urged residents and media organizations to maintain calm while sharing reliable information with security agencies under strict confidentiality assurances.