The Nigerian military confirmed on Saturday that a series of targeted arrests across Oyo State and nationwide successfully dismantled the criminal network responsible for the abduction of teachers and pupils in the Oriire Local Government Area. These enforcement actions created enough pressure to compel the kidnappers to let their captives go without conditions.
Abducted on May 15, 2026, the group was freed on July 10 after an intelligence-driven mission involving a coalition of security forces. This operation, overseen by Major General C.R. Nnebeife of the 2 Division, Ibadan, brought together the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, NIA, NSCDC, Amotekun, and local security volunteers.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma, acting spokesperson for the 2 Division, stated that the operation specifically targeted supply lines and hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park. By neutralizing key figures and informants, the military severely crippled the group’s operational capacity.
While the mission was executed with precision to prioritize the safety of the victims, the military noted that security personnel did sustain some casualties during the effort. The rescued individuals are currently undergoing medical evaluation before being returned to the Oyo State Government for family reunification.
Leadership in the military expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde for their backing. They also lauded the collaborative efforts of national security chiefs and encouraged citizens to keep sharing actionable intelligence to assist ongoing safety initiatives.
