Imo State, Nigeria: Families of young Nigerians travelling to begin their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme are facing severe anxiety after gunmen attacked two buses on the Owerri–Onitsha road in Imo State.

The buses were carrying prospective corps members travelling from Ibadan toward orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states when the attack occurred near Umunoha in Mbaitoli Local Government Area. Security authorities launched a search-and-rescue operation soon after the incident.

The initial police response resulted in the recovery of both buses and the rescue of 10 people. However, authorities have acknowledged that the exact number of people still being held has been difficult to establish, with different accounts emerging about the total number of victims.

Security agencies have since intensified efforts to locate those who remain missing. The Inspector-General of Police deployed a senior deputy inspector-general and additional commissioners to Imo State to strengthen the operation and coordinate intelligence-led searches.

A major development came when police said drones had helped identify a suspected location where the abductors were holding victims. However, officers reportedly delayed entering the area after receiving intelligence that the suspected camp could contain improvised explosive devices.

The security operation is consequently being planned with additional equipment and personnel. Police authorities have indicated that specialised resources are being prepared to reach the location while reducing the danger to both officers and the people being held.

The incident has caused particular concern among families because the passengers were young graduates travelling for a national service programme. Relatives have appealed for the safe return of those still missing.

Reports from families also indicate that alleged kidnappers have contacted some relatives and demanded large ransom payments. One account reported a demand of ₦50 million for each victim, although details surrounding the ransom demands remain subject to investigation.

The attack has also raised fresh concerns about passenger security on major roads in southeastern Nigeria. The Owerri–Onitsha route is an important transport corridor connecting communities and commercial centres across the region.

Authorities have continued to work with the NYSC administration while attempting to keep affected families informed. Security agencies are also seeking information that could help identify the attackers and establish the whereabouts of the remaining victims.

The case remains an active investigation. Officials have not yet provided a final account of the number of people abducted, and conflicting figures have appeared in public reports. Police have emphasized that the search operation will continue until those still missing are located.

For the families involved, the immediate priority is the safe recovery of their relatives. Security agencies now face the challenge of conducting a carefully coordinated operation while dealing with the reported security risks around the suspected hideout.

Further developments are expected as investigators continue their search and authorities work to establish the full circumstances of the attack.