There are strong indications that the 39 abducted schoolchildren and seven teachers kidnapped from Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota, and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State may soon regain their freedom as security operatives intensify ongoing rescue efforts.
Multiple security sources disclosed that troops and other personnel involved in the operation have successfully surrounded a hideout within the National Park forest, where the victims are believed to be held captive.
According to the sources, security forces have blocked all possible escape routes leading out of the forest, effectively restricting the movement of the terrorists and preventing them from relocating the hostages.
Recall that on May 15, 2026, armed terrorists invaded three schools in the Oriire Local Government Area and abducted 46 persons, including pupils and teachers.
Security officials familiar with the operation revealed that the kidnappers have been largely contained within the forest as troops continue to tighten the security cordon around their hideout.
The sources further disclosed that increasing pressure from the advancing security forces has left the terrorists desperate and fearful of imminent capture. In what appears to be an attempt to blackmail authorities and force a halt to the rescue operation, the kidnappers reportedly murdered one of the abducted teachers in recent days.
Despite the setback, security agencies remain committed to securing the safe release of the remaining hostages and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Credit; Vanguard
