The military has confirmed that some security personnel suffered casualties during the month-long operation that led to the rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The victims, who were kidnapped on May 15, were rescued on July 10 after what the military described as an intelligence-led operation involving the Armed Forces, police, intelligence agencies, Amotekun, local vigilantes and hunters.
In a statement on Saturday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, the military said the operation targeted the kidnappers’ network and logistics chain in the Old Oyo National Park and other locations.
“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,” the statement said.
The military said multiple arrests disrupted the group’s activities and forced the kidnappers to release the victims unconditionally.
“The arrests completely disorganized the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to unconditionally release the pupils and teachers.”
It said the operation was carefully planned to ensure the victims were rescued safely while avoiding collateral damage.
“However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces,” the statement added, without providing further details.
The rescued pupils and teachers are receiving medical attention and will later be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families. The military also commended President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde and other security stakeholders for supporting the operation.