Police Speaks On Terrorists Transferring Kidnapped Oyo Pupils, Teachers To Kaduna

The Oyo State Police Command has debunked a social media claim alleging that schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area were transported to Kaduna State by helicopter.

Naija News reports that the command described the report as false, misleading and unverified.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the command was aware of a video circulating online claiming that the abducted victims from Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities had been moved out of Oyo State.

“The Command wishes to categorically state that the content of the said video is entirely false, unverified, misleading, and devoid of any factual basis,” the statement read.

The police added that the claim “lacks credibility, substance, and the requisite threshold of authenticity expected of information relating to such a sensitive security matter.”

Ayanlade said security agencies had intensified efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.

“Intensive rescue operations remain ongoing. The Oyo State Police Command, in close collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, has significantly intensified efforts aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of all abducted victims, their prompt reunification with their families, and the apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for the unfortunate incident,” he said.

The command warned against the spread of false information capable of creating panic or obstructing security operations.

“Such actions are not only irresponsible but also capable of creating unnecessary panic, misleading the public, and obstructing security operations,” the police said.

It added that individuals or groups found spreading misleading content would be dealt with according to the law.

“The Oyo State Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property and assures the public that every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe return of the abducted children and teachers,” the statement added.