Police launch manhunt after mass school abduction, killing in Oyo Community by bandits

Crime Diary

IBADAN, Nigeria (NPA) — The Oyo State Police Command has launched what it described as a massive manhunt and rescue operation following the abduction of pupils, students and school staff by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday when armed assailants riding motorcycles invaded schools and surrounding communities within the area.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the attackers simultaneously stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and Community Grammar School/L.A Primary School, Esiele.

The police said the gunmen abducted several pupils, students and staff members, including the Vice Principal, Mrs Alamu Folawe.

The Command, however, clarified that no pupil or student had been confirmed killed as of the time of filing the report.

The police disclosed that an Assistant Headmaster, identified as Mr Adesiyan was killed during the attack.

In a related development, a commercial motorcycle rider was also reportedly shot dead after resisting attempts by the attackers to seize his motorcycle.

Investigations revealed that Community Grammar School and L.A Primary School operate within the same premises in Esiele.

The attackers were also said to have taken away a Toyota Corolla vehicle belonging to the abducted Vice Principal before later setting it ablaze along a road leading to the forest.

Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, led security operatives and other service commanders to the affected communities for an on-the-spot assessment and operational coordination.

The Commissioner subsequently directed an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators and ordered the deployment of tactical teams, intelligence assets and other operational resources to the area.

The police said the deployment was aimed at preventing further breakdown of law and order, securing the affected communities, rescuing the abducted victims and apprehending those responsible for the attack.

The Command assured residents that rescue operations were ongoing and urged members of the public to remain calm and provide credible information that could assist security agencies in the investigation.

Residents were also encouraged to report emergencies through the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free line 615 or the Command’s emergency numbers.