Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police Operations, Shehu Umar Nadada, to Imo State to provide operational direction for the search-and-rescue mission involving prospective NYSC members and other passengers abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Road, Umunoha, on October 1, 2026.
Nadada arrived in Imo with two Commissioners of Police and conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the situation and ongoing rescue efforts. He reviewed the operational strategies, personnel and assets deployed while issuing further directives to strengthen the coordinated response.
The police said the search-and-rescue operation has been intensified with additional tactical teams and operational assets deployed across identified areas. The operation is being supported by intelligence-led tracking and coordinated with other security agencies to rescue the abducted persons and apprehend the perpetrators.
Nadada assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force would sustain the operation until the 20 abducted persons are safely rescued.
He urged the public and media to remain calm and vigilant and encouraged anyone with credible information to contact the police or nearest security formation, with information treated confidentially.