New details reveal that an intelligence-driven mission led to the rescue of students and teachers kidnapped from Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota, and Alawusa in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Security officials credit the detention of the kidnappers’ relatives as the key turning point in the operation.
On May 15, 2026, 39 students and seven teachers were taken by militants. While one teacher died while being held, the remaining hostages were recovered on July 10 during a joint effort by the military and the Department of State Services (DSS). Security sources explained that after isolating the militants’ hideout in a national park forest, agents arrested several wives and children of the perpetrators across the country.
The captors became notably more cooperative after learning through leaked interrogation videos that their families were in custody. Although the militants offered to exchange the hostages for their detained relatives, security forces refused this deal. Instead, they maintained military pressure and demanded the unconditional release of the victims. Authorities believe holding these family members discouraged the militants from harming the hostages.
The final rescue mission was launched after intelligence confirmed that the captives were no longer being used as human shields. The assault was quick and powerful, neutralizing the weakened kidnappers. This decisive action was influenced by the earlier death of Maj. Gen. Abubakar Rabbe (retd) in captivity, proving to officials that prolonged negotiations often endanger victims. President Bola Tinubu’s firm stance against ransom payments or formal negotiations with terror groups guided the strategy. Investigations are ongoing, with plans to prosecute any family members found complicit in the crimes while releasing those uninvolved.
