Nine suspected bandits were reportedly killed and several others arrested during a joint security operation that led to the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The victims regained freedom on Friday during an operation involving personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
According to security sources, they were rescued from a hideout in the Old Oyo National Park, where they had allegedly been held captive for more than 55 days.
The suspected kidnappers were said to be members of an armed criminal group, with reports alleging links to a faction of the Boko Haram terrorist group. However, security authorities are yet to issue an official statement confirming the affiliation.
Speaking on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme anchored by Seun Okinbaloye, Senator Ali Ndume said he had been in contact with officials of the DSS and the Nigerian Army regarding the rescue operation.
According to the senator, nine suspected bandits were neutralised, while several others were arrested during the operation.
Reacting to the development, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described the rescue of the pupils and teachers as a huge relief, expressing appreciation to the security agencies and President Bola Tinubu for their efforts.
“It is a big relief to all of us. I will use the opportunity to say thank you to all the service commanders, the Nigerian Police, the DSS, the military and, of course, the President for pushing really hard for this.
I am overjoyed. I cannot really say much,” Makinde said during a telephone interview on the programme.
The governor also commended the media for sustaining public attention on the abduction and helping to keep pressure on authorities throughout the rescue efforts.
As of the time of filing this report, the security agencies had yet to release an official statement detailing the operation, the identities of those arrested or the condition of the rescued victims.
The reported killing of the suspected bandits and the alleged Boko Haram link also await independent official confirmation.
