Security Forces Rescue 44 Captives in Oyo, Sustain Casualties in Operation

​In a major breakthrough for national security, 44 pupils and teachers abducted from the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been unconditionally released following a month-long, intelligence-led military operation.

​The victims, who were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, regained their freedom on July 10, 2026, after security forces dismantled the criminal networks holding them captive within the Old Oyo National Park. The operation, which ultimately secured the safety of the captives, unfortunately resulted in some casualties among the security personnel involved.

​A Coordinated Multi-Agency Offensive

​The successful rescue was spearheaded by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General C.R. Nnebeife. The operation involved a coalition of specialized units, including:

• ​Federal Security Agencies: The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Defence Headquarters, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

• ​State and Local Support: The Amotekun Corps, alongside local vigilantes and hunters who provided critical ground intelligence.

​The military stated that the operation was “surgical” and carefully planned to avoid collateral damage. By targeting the terrorists’ logistics chains, informants, and key leadership figures, security forces exerted overwhelming pressure that forced the syndicate to release the captives without further conditions.

​Path to Recovery

​The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical attention in an undisclosed facility and are expected to be reunited with their families after being formally handed over to the Oyo State Government.

​The success of this mission has brought an end to weeks of uncertainty and public anxiety. The abduction had previously forced an industrial action by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Oyo State, which was only recently suspended following government assurances regarding the safety of school environments.

ADVERTISEMENT

​In his address, the GOC 2 Division expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strategic guidance, as well as to Governor Seyi Makinde and the various security chiefs for their seamless coordination during the mission. While this operation marks a significant victory, authorities have indicated that further efforts are ongoing to ensure total security across the region.

​How 44 abducted Oyo pupils, teachers were rescued

​This video provides additional context regarding the intensification of the rescue efforts led by the Defence Headquarters prior to the successful operation.