Several other suspected gang members reportedly escaped during the operations with gunshot wounds, prompting security agencies to launch a manhunt for the fleeing suspects.
The arrests followed a series of intelligence-led operations conducted at different locations in Rivers and Abia states.
Security sources disclosed that the operations were carried out between October 10 and 14 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and Aba South Local Government Area of Abia State.
Recall that 20 prospective NYSC members were abducted by armed men along the Owerri–Onitsha Expressway in Imo State on October 1, 2026, while travelling to their designated orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states.
The victims were subsequently rescued on October 7, 2026, during a joint security operation at Amakohia Ubi village.
The latest arrests mark a significant breakthrough in efforts to track down the perpetrators, dismantle the criminal network allegedly responsible for the abduction and bring those involved to justice.
A security source described the development as a major relief, noting that security agencies had sustained an extensive manhunt for the suspects.
“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 to court by the DSS and the corps members will get justice,” the source said.
