Five suspected members of a criminal gang accused of kidnapping 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Imo State have been arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), the military, and the police. The arrests were made during a series of intelligence-led operations carried out between October 10 and 14, 2026, at different locations in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and the Aba South Local Government Area of Abia State.
How the NYSC Abduction Unfolded
The 20 NYSC corps members were seized by armed men along the Owerri–Onitsha Expressway in Imo State on October 1, 2026, as they were travelling to their assigned orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states. The abduction occurred on Nigeria's 66th Independence Day. All 20 victims were eventually rescued on October 7, 2026, during a joint security operation at Amakohia Ubi Village.
Arrests Mark Breakthrough in Manhunt
The recent arrests represent a significant development in the effort to dismantle the criminal network behind the kidnapping. As reported by The Punch, three other suspects managed to escape during the operations with gunshot injuries, prompting a large-scale manhunt by security agencies.
A security source said agencies had maintained a sustained pursuit of the abductors since the incident. "This is a huge sigh of relief. Security agencies have been on a manhunt for the abductors, and we are elated that they have been captured. We strongly believe they will be charged in court by DSS and the corps members will get justice," the source said.
Manhunt Continues for Fleeing Suspects
Authorities said the search for the three fleeing suspects with gunshot wounds remains active. The arrests and ongoing manhunt underscore the commitment of security agencies to bring all perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of citizens, particularly NYSC members on national service.
