Court begins trial over kidnap of 20 NYSC members

By Chidi Nkwopara
OWERRI — An Imo State High Court, presided over by Justice Emeka Orafu, has commenced hearing in the case involving the kidnap of 20 prospective members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

Three defendants — Usman Aliyu, alias Chonge; Babangida Aliyu; and Mohamed Ali, alias Smallie Pepper — are facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, hostage-taking and unlawful possession of firearms in suit number HOU/22C/2026.

The Imo State Director of Public Prosecution, Mr Martins Udolwu, led the prosecution team, while Nnaemeka S. C. Adipo and Paschal Ofoma appeared for the defendants.

Testifying before the court, the first prosecution witness, Ikechukwu Emm...