POLICE LAUNCH MASSIVE MANHUNT OVER GUNMEN DEADLY ABDUCTION OF STUDENTS AND STAFFS IN OYO STATE
The Oyo State Police Command says it has commenced a massive manhunt and rescue operation following the abduction of pupils, students and staff members during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the attacks occurred in the early hours of Friday when armed hoodlums operating on motorcycles invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, as well as Community Grammar School and L.A Primary School, Esiele.
The statement explained that the attackers abducted some pupils, students and staff members, including the Vice Principal, Mrs. Alamu Folawe.
The Police Command, however, clarified that no pupil or student has been confirmed killed in the incident as at the time of filing the report.
The statement added that an Assistant Headmaster identified as Mr. Adesiyan was killed during the attack, while an okada rider who reportedly resisted attempts by the hoodlums to seize his motorcycle was also shot dead.
Police further disclosed that the attackers carted 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 the state, Abimbola Olugbenga, reportedly led other security chiefs to the affected communities for on-the-spot assessment and operational coordination.
The Command noted that tactical teams, intelligence platforms and other operational assets have since been deployed to the area to ensure the rescue of the victims, prevent further breakdown of law and order, and apprehend those behind the attack.
The Police Command appealed to residents to remain calm, vigilant and supportive by providing useful information that could aid ongoing rescue and investigation efforts.
