Nigerian police say bombs are preventing a rescue operation for 19 kidnapped youth service recruits in Imo state, as the abductors have demanded a ransom.
Nigerian police have located a camp where 19 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members are being held but are unable to proceed due to suspected explosives. Police Commissioner Audu Bosso stated that drones helped identify the camp, where the recruits were abducted last week in Imo state.
The father of one of the abductees reported not eating for three days due to worry and said he could not afford the 50 million naira ransom demanded by the kidnappers. The youths were traveling from Ibadan to orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states when attacked near Umunoha in Imo state.
Why it matters
The inability to rescue the kidnapped youths highlights the risks posed by unsecured explosive devices in ongoing security operations.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The outcome of the police's preparations for a rescue operation using bulldozers and armoured vehicles.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.