Police Issues Update on Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers

The Oyo State Police Command has denied the report that pupils, students and teachers abducted during last Friday’s attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state have been rescued.

The command said that the victims were still in captivity, adding that security agencies were stepping up efforts to secure their release and arrest those behind the attack.

Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan, the state capital.

Members of the public were asked to ignore rumours that the abducted victims had regained their freedom.

The statement read, “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the abducted students, pupils and teachers in Orire Local Government Area are yet to be released, as intensive efforts by security agencies are ongoing to ensure their safe rescue and the arrest of the perpetrators of the criminal act.

“The Command hereby debunks the rumour making the rounds that the victims have been rescued.

The police called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with the ongoing joint security operation.

The command also warned against circulating unverified information, saying fake news could lead to panic and hinder security efforts.

“The public is urged to remain calm, support the ongoing efforts of the joint security team and cross-check every piece of information before disseminating it.

“The proliferation of fake news and misinformation only leads to unnecessary panic, increases tension and diverts scarce security resources that are critically needed for ongoing operations,” the statement said.

Police told residents they would provide updates that were verified as the situation developed.

“The Command assures the good people of Oyo State that updates and verified facts will be made available as the situation unfolds.

“Those seeking clarification or true information are advised to contact the Police Public Relations Officer or the Command’s control room through the numbers below.