Twists have emerged in the ongoing investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, with police confirming the arrest of eight suspects believed to be linked to the criminal network behind the incident.
The arrests come as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the victims, who are still being held captive by their abductors. Authorities say the suspects include alleged informants and logistics providers accused of supporting the operation.
The development has raised hopes among worried families and residents. However, police insist that the main perpetrators remain at large, while rescue efforts continue across affected areas.
Speaking in Ibadan, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed that several arrests had been made. However, he declined to reveal sensitive details that could affect ongoing operations.
According to him, investigators are carefully handling information to prevent other suspects from escaping arrest.
Furthermore, the police dismissed reports circulating online regarding alleged negotiations and phone calls linked to the abduction.
Ayanlade stated:
“There has not been any confirmed phone call to any individual in respect of the abduction apart from reports being circulated on social media, which cannot be substantiated.”
His comments came amid widespread speculation surrounding the case.
Moreover, the police spokesperson declined to verify reports suggesting that suspects were identified through intercepted telephone conversations.
He urged members of the public to avoid spreading unconfirmed information.
Meanwhile, security agencies have continued working with other stakeholders to secure the victims’ release.
Ayanlade assured residents that efforts remain ongoing.
He said:
“Our command is working tirelessly for the safe return of the abductees.”
Despite the recent arrests, authorities confirmed that the suspected kidnappers remain in hiding.
Security sources believe the criminals may be operating within forest corridors and using advanced communication methods to avoid detection.
Among those arrested are Babangida Buhari Awalu and Kabiru Aliyu.
The pair, who work as commercial motorcyclists, were reportedly apprehended in the Ojoo area of Ibadan.
Investigators suspect they acted as couriers for the kidnapping syndicate.
In addition, other suspects identified as Adewuyi Sunday, Ayanwola Gbenga, and Rafiu Abdulmajeed were also arrested during follow-up operations.
However, the police refused to confirm reports connecting the suspects to specific communities.
Officials cited the sensitive nature of the investigation as the reason for withholding further details.
According to security sources, a student identified as Adeleye Ayomide was reportedly found with a mobile phone belonging to one of the victims.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the discovery are still underway.
Furthermore, financial investigations have reportedly exposed transactions involving several bank accounts linked to the suspected network.
Authorities are examining whether the accounts were used to support communication and logistics for the operation.
Relevant financial institutions have also been drawn into the investigation.
Meanwhile, the police have debunked claims circulating on social media that the abducted pupils and teachers have been rescued.
Describing the reports as false, Ayanlade urged residents to rely only on verified information.
He stated:
“As of the time of this release, there has been no such development, and members of the public are advised to disregard the report in its entirety.”
The command further reassured families that every available resource is being deployed to secure the victims’ release.
Ayanlade added:
“Security operatives are working tirelessly, deploying all available human and operational resources to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers, their unharmed reunification with their families, and the apprehension and prosecution of all those responsible for the heinous act.”
