DSS Testifies in NYSC Kidnap Case: Details Emerge on Abduction of Prospective Corps Members

In a significant development in the ongoing trial concerning the kidnapping of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, a key witness from the Department of State Services (DSS) provided crucial testimony in an Imo State High Court. The incident, which took place at approximately 6:30 AM on October 1, 2026, involved armed assailants who ambushed two buses carrying the corps members as they traveled from Ibadan to orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states.

The witness, Ikechukwu Emmanuel, detailed how the victims and one of the bus drivers were able to identify the three defendants, namely Usman Aliyu, alias Chonge; Babangida Aliyu; and Mohamed Ali, alias Smallie Pepper, during an identification parade. The defendants now face serious charges, including conspiracy, hostage-taking, and unlawful possession of firearms, as outlined in suit number HOU/22C/2026.

During his testimony, Emmanuel recounted the terrifying moments of the kidnapping, where armed men brandishing AK-47 rifles forced the buses to a halt and abducted all 20 passengers. He stated, “The hostages were taken into the bush, and it was through a coordinated effort involving various security agencies in Imo State that we managed to track the kidnappers.”

After extensive operations utilizing both human and technical intelligence, the DSS operative revealed that the victims were ultimately released following the payment of a ransom demanded by the kidnappers. He noted that investigations are ongoing to ensure that all parties involved in the crime are brought to justice.

“The abduction of these young Nigerians poses a significant threat to the safety of citizens and highlights the urgent need for improved security measures,” Emmanuel emphasized during his testimony.