DSS takes suspects into custody after rescue operation frees abducted pupils and teachers; kingpin remains on trial despite kidnappers’ demands.

The Presidency has revealed fresh details surrounding the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, confirming that eight suspects have been arrested while others were killed during the operation.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed the update on Friday via his verified X handle, shortly after announcing the victims’ release.

According to Onanuga, the arrested kidnappers are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while additional members of the gang were neutralised in the course of the rescue mission.

He stressed that the Federal Government did not make any concessions to secure the victims’ freedom, firmly rejecting claims of a negotiated release.

“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue,” Onanuga stated. “One of the terrorists—a kingpin—whose release was demanded by the kidnappers remains in custody and is being prosecuted for his crimes.”

He added that security agencies would provide a full account of the operation in due course.

The victims had been held for weeks after gunmen attacked three schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities on May 15. The incident sparked nationwide outrage and heightened concerns over school security in the region.

Their eventual rescue marks a significant breakthrough for security forces amid ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping and violent attacks targeting schools.