Imo CP says no ransom was paid for 20 abducted corps members

The Imo State Police Command has denied knowledge of any ransom payment to secure the release of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and another abducted victim.

According to SaharaReporters, Commissioner of Police Audu Bosso said intensified security operations forced the kidnappers to release their captives.

Speaking on Channels Television on Thursday, Bosso explained that security operatives combed forests and pressured the abductors until the victims regained freedom.

The victims were kidnapped on October 1 along the Owerri-Onitsha Road while travelling from Ibadan to orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states.

Reports had suggested that the kidnappers demanded ₦50 million per victim, but Bosso maintained that he was unaware of any payment.

The remaining captives were released on Wednesday from Amakohia-Ubi forest in Owerri West.

Governor Hope Uzodimma commended security agencies and cooperation between Imo and Oyo governments.

The victims are receiving medical attention in Owerri following their release.