There are strong indications that the 39 abducted schoolchildren and seven teachers from Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State may soon regain their freedom as security operatives intensify rescue operations.
Security sources disclosed that troops have blocked all possible escape routes within the National Park forest area where the victims are believed to be held, effectively tightening the cordon around the kidnappers.
Recall that on May 15, 2026, armed attackers stormed three schools in Oriire council area and abducted a total of 46 people, including pupils and teachers.
According to multiple sources familiar with the operation, security personnel have surrounded a suspected hideout inside the forest, restricting the movement of the abductors and their captives.
The sources further noted that the kidnappers have been “effectively contained within the forest,” with troops maintaining pressure by cutting off escape routes.
It was also gathered that as security forces close in, the abductors have reportedly scaled down some of their earlier demands and are now mainly focused on negotiating ransom payment.
Investigations further revealed that the leader of the kidnapping gang is reportedly an indigene of Oriire Local Government Area who once lived among residents before allegedly becoming radicalised by a terror group and adopting extremist ideology.
