The Oyo state police command has arrested six suspects allegedly linked to the recent school abduction in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire local government council of Oyo State, as security agencies intensify efforts to dismantle the kidnapping network behind the incident.
According to the police, the suspects were apprehended through intelligence-led operations and tactical surveillance that uncovered their alleged communication with the kidnappers responsible for the school abduction.
Despite the arrests, official security reports indicate that the principal kidnappers operating within the forest area have not yet been captured and continue to evade security operatives.
The police identified two of the suspects, Babangida and Kabiru, as alleged local logistics providers, couriers and informants for the criminal group.
They were reportedly arrested in the Ojoo area of Ibadan while attempting to collect ransom money on behalf of the kidnappers.
Further investigations led to the arrest of three additional suspects — Adewuyi, Ayanwola and Rafiu — who are said to be from Gbugbu in Kwara State and Ago-Are in Oyo state.
Investigators also discovered that three bank accounts were allegedly used as temporary holding points for funds before the money was transferred to the kidnappers operating in the forest.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and relevant anti-corruption agencies have reportedly commenced investigations into the accounts linked to the suspects.
In a related development, security operatives arrested a university student identified as Adeleye after he was allegedly found in possession of a victim’s mobile phone.
Authorities said electronic ransom demands sent to parents of the abducted victims were traced to a device linked to the suspect.
The state police command’s Public Relations Officer disclosed that investigators intercepted conversations between the suspects and local informants, including discussions on how to navigate routes within the Old Oyo National Park and avoid military checkpoints during operations.
The command reiterated its commitment to securing the release of victims and bringing all those involved in the kidnapping network to justice, while ongoing efforts continue to track down the remaining bandits believed to be hiding in forest locations.
Police authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information that could assist security agencies in combating kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.