JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
The Presidency has disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers involved in the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been arrested, while several others were killed during a rescue operation that ended the victims’ 56-day captivity..
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the development on Friday, saying the suspects were currently in the custody of the Department of State Services.
The latest disclosure came hours after the Presidency confirmed the successful rescue of all pupils and teachers abducted and abducted by gunmen during coordinated attacks on three schools in Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities on May 15.
Onanuga also rejected claims that victims had regained their freedom through negotiations involving the release of detained terrorists or any form of concession from the federal government.
According to him, one of the terror bosses, whose release was demanded by the kidnappers, is still in custody and is being prosecuted for terrorism-related crimes.
He wrote on his verified X handle: “Updated: In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them have been neutralized.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, whose release the kidnappers demanded, was prosecuted for his atrocities. Security agencies will soon provide full account.”
He added that security agencies would soon provide a detailed account of the rescue operation.
The victims were abducted after dozens of armed men, some dressed in military uniforms and riding motorcycles, invaded Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School and LA Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area.
The attack claimed the life of one teacher during the invasion, while another teacher, identified as Michael Oyedokun, was later beheaded by the kidnappers while they were in captivity, a development that sparked nationwide outrage.
It was confirmed that 46 victims were abducted during the attack, including 39 pupils and seven teachers.
The incident sparked widespread condemnation, protests and an indefinite strike by the Nigerian Teachers Union in Oyo state, while the federal government sent additional security personnel and intelligence assets to secure the release of the victims.
During their time in captivity, reports emerged that the kidnappers had demanded the release of two alleged terrorist commanders as a condition for the victims’ release.
However, the Presidency maintained that no prisoner exchange or other concession was granted.
With the rescue now complete, attention has turned to the ongoing investigation and prosecution of those responsible for one of the country’s most disturbing mass school kidnappings in recent months.
Security agencies are expected to provide further details on the operation, including the circumstances surrounding the rescue and arrest of the suspects.
‘Want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need advertising for a product, service or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Please donate any amount HERE
