Imo police say drones located abductees’ camp, warn of explosive threat

Police in Imo State say drones have located the suspected camp holding abducted prospective corps members, but an intelligence warning about explosives has delayed entry into the area.

Commissioner of Police Audu Bosso said security operatives trailed the abductors into the bush and used drones on Friday to identify their location. He disclosed the development to reporters on Saturday, October 3.

Bosso said intelligence indicated that the camp had been planted with improvised explosive devices, prompting caution over an immediate move into the site. The warning is a police account, not independent confirmation that explosives have been found.

He said security agencies were preparing to use bulldozers and armoured personnel carriers to reach the area and try to rescue the victims unhurt. His remarks described preparations, not a completed rescue.

The prospective National Youth Service Corps members were travelling from Ibadan, Oyo State, to orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom when gunmen attacked them near Umunoha on the Owerri-Onitsha Road on Thursday.

Premium Times described about 19 prospective corps members as abducted and reported that police were still verifying the number in captivity. Earlier accounts referred to 20, while police had announced that 10 people were rescued after the attack. Those figures do not establish a current total still being held.

Families have also sought help over ransom demands. NaijaTrend reported their appeal and the differing accounts of the number abducted here.

Sources: Premium Times, Vanguard