Oyo abduction: Security forces suffered casualties during rescue operation — Military

The Nigerian military announced Saturday that security personnel suffered casualties during a month-long operation that led to the rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State. The victims, kidnapped on May 15, 2026, were recovered on July 10 following an intelligence-led, coordinated operation involving multiple security and intelligence agencies.

The operation was spearheaded by Major General C.R. Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser through the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the Defence Headquarters, and various branches of the military and police. Agencies including the Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun, local vigilantes, and hunters also participated.

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The operations, which lasted for more than a month, focused on identifying the terrorist kingpins that masterminded the kidnapping, busting and dismantling their networks and logistics links, including their informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park Forest, Oyo State.

Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 2 Division, stated that the operation focused on dismantling the kidnappers' network and logistics chain within the Old Oyo National Park and other locations. Security operatives made multiple arrests across Oyo State and other parts of the country, disrupting the group's activities and compelling the unconditional release of the captives. "The operations, which lasted for more than a month, focused on identifying the terrorist kingpins that masterminded the kidnapping, busting and dismantling their networks and logistics links, including their informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park Forest, Oyo State," Danjuma said.

The military emphasized that the operation was meticulously planned to ensure the safe recovery of the victims while minimizing collateral damage. "It suffices to note that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued. However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces," the statement noted, without providing specific details on the casualties. The rescued pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical care at an undisclosed hospital and will be transferred to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families. The GOC commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for their strategic guidance and support.

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It suffices to note that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued. However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces.