The Oyo State Government has said suspected kidnappers involved in the attack on LA School and Community Grammar School in Ahoro-Esinele community, Oriire Local Government Area, have been trapped within the National Park corridor following intensified security operations across the area.
The attack reportedly claimed the life of a teacher and led to the abduction of some pupils, alongside the school principal, two vice principals and three teachers.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, the government said security operatives had successfully blocked escape routes, preventing the suspects from moving into neighbouring states, including Kwara State.
According to the statement, one motorcycle rider and a teacher sustained gunshot injuries during the attack, while the injured teacher later died.
The commissioner explained that security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Agro Rangers and the Nigeria Police Force, were immediately mobilised after the incident to commence rescue operations.
He added that the Commissioner of Police later directed the Anti-Kidnapping Squad to join the operation, while collaboration was also established with the Kwara State Police Command to strengthen border surveillance and intercept fleeing suspects.
Prince Oyelade disclosed that intelligence reports indicated the kidnappers were still within the National Park axis in Oyo State.
This development prompted the deployment of patrol teams comprising Amotekun operatives and local hunters from seven local government areas in Oke-Ogun through Igbeti, Oloka and surrounding communities.
The commissioner noted that authorities had not yet established direct communication with the abductors and stated that efforts were ongoing to determine the exact number of abducted pupils due to incomplete records from school authorities.
“This has made the rescue operation more difficult. What we are trying to do now is locate their position and apply pressure,” he said.
He assured residents that security personnel remain actively engaged in the rescue mission and expressed confidence that the sustained pressure on the suspects would aid the safe release of all abducted victims.
Prince Oyelade also stated that the swift response to the incident reflects the state government’s continued investment in security infrastructure and community-based policing initiatives.
According to him, the Amotekun Corps in Oyo State currently operates 181 vehicles, 450 motorcycles and more than 2,500 personnel to enhance surveillance and rapid response operations across the state.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing the release of all abducted victims and restoring normalcy to the affected communities.
