The Security Forces Pursued The Abductors From Day One, But They Had Moved Deep Into The Forest -Army

According to a report by the Punch on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, the Nigerian Army has revealed that the rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State was the result of a sustained military operation that began immediately after the victims were taken. The operation, coordinated with other security agencies, eventually secured the victims’ freedom after nearly two months in captivity.

Speaking on the operation, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, explained that troops launched a relentless pursuit of the kidnappers from the onset of the incident, but the criminals had already retreated into dense forest areas, making the rescue mission more challenging. He stated, “The security forces pursued the abductors from day one, but they had moved deep into the forest.”

Nnebeife said the mission involved a joint effort by the military, police, Department of State Services, Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and other security agencies. He explained that aerial surveillance initially proved ineffective because of the thick forest canopy, prompting the deployment of ground troops to continue the search.

The Army commander disclosed that the rescue operation came at a heavy cost, with two soldiers losing their lives while others sustained injuries during the mission. He added that one soldier suffered a gunshot wound that resulted in a fractured arm, underscoring the dangers encountered during the operation.

According to him, security forces also focused on dismantling the kidnappers’ support network by identifying key collaborators, disrupting supply routes and tracking associates operating in locations including Adamawa and Kano states. These coordinated actions gradually weakened the criminal group’s operations and restricted their movement.

He further revealed that the final breakthrough came after security operatives blocked the kidnappers’ major logistics base in Ashamu, forcing them to release the abducted teachers and pupils without conditions. Nnebeife stressed that beyond rescuing the victims, the broader objective remains the complete elimination of terrorist activities and criminal networks operating within the region…..See More