The Nigerian military has confirmed that security personnel suffered casualties during the operation that led to the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State.
According to military authorities, the joint rescue mission involved personnel from the Nigerian Army, other security agencies, and local intelligence operatives, who confronted the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle before securing the victims’ freedom.
The military disclosed that while all the abducted pupils and teachers were rescued alive, some security operatives paid the ultimate price, while others sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire with the criminals.
The operation, described as intelligence-driven, was launched after days of coordinated surveillance and tracking of the kidnappers’ hideouts. Security forces reportedly overpowered the abductors, forcing them to abandon the captives.
Military authorities praised the courage and sacrifice of the personnel involved, noting that the success of the operation came at a significant cost. They assured Nigerians that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing kidnappers and dismantle criminal networks operating in the region.
The rescue operation has drawn widespread commendation, including from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who applauded the security agencies for their professionalism and bravery. The President also extended his condolences to the families of the fallen personnel and wished the injured operatives a speedy recovery.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against bandits and kidnappers across the country, urging citizens to continue providing credible intelligence to support security efforts.
The rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers marks a major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping in Oyo State, even as the loss of security personnel highlights the dangers faced daily by troops and other operatives in protecting lives and property.