The Nigerian Army has confirmed that the 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State on May 15 were released unconditionally by the terrorists on Friday, July 10. The announcement was made in a statement detailing the coordinated rescue operation led by Major General CR Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan.
Multi-Agency Rescue Operation
The operation involved collaboration with special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), specifically the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC), the Defence Headquarters, and Special Forces elements from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other security agencies.
Disruption of Terrorist Networks
The Army stated that the operations, which lasted over a month, focused on identifying the terrorist kingpins who masterminded the kidnapping. Efforts included bursting and dismantling their networks and logistics links, including informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park Forest, Oyo State. Multiple arrests were made within Oyo State and in other locations across several states.
Unconditional Release and Casualties
According to the statement, 'These arrests completely disorganized the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to unconditionally release the pupils and teachers. Further operations are to be conducted. 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.'
Medical Care and Reunification
The statement concluded by saying the pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention in an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government in due course to be reunited with their families.
