A former operative of the Department of State Services, Seyi Adetayo, has revealed how security agencies secured the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State after 56 days in captivity without paying ransom or releasing any detained suspect.
Adetayo said the operation was driven by intelligence gathering, which enabled security operatives to identify the kidnappers’ network and apply pressure that eventually forced them to release the victims.
Speaking during an interview on TVC News on Friday, the former DSS operative said investigators traced the relatives and close associates of the kidnappers as part of the operation.
According to him, security operatives identified and arrested some of the kidnappers’ mothers, wives, children and other associates before recording videos of them and sending the footage to the abductors.
He said the move formed part of a broader intelligence strategy aimed at mounting psychological pressure on the kidnappers.
Adetayo added that security agencies also blocked the kidnappers’ supply routes and escape channels while combining intelligence operations with negotiations to secure the victims’ release.
He said the approach led to the safe rescue of the pupils and teachers after 56 days without paying ransom or agreeing to a prisoner swap.
His remarks came after the Presidency confirmed that the victims were rescued alive during a coordinated security operation.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, had earlier disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation, while several others were killed.
He said the Federal Government did not negotiate with the abductors or grant their demand for the release of one of their detained leaders, who is currently facing prosecution.
Following their rescue, the pupils and teachers thanked President Bola Tinubu and security agencies for securing their freedom.
President Tinubu also commended the security agencies for successfully carrying out the operation and ensuring the victims returned home safely.
