IEDs planted by bandits kill security operatives on rescue mission in Oyo

Security operatives involved in the rescue of abducted teachers and pupils of schools in Ahoro-Esinele, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, have been killed after encountering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) planted by bandits.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed this in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Suleimon Olanrewaju, May 18, 2026.

Makinde said the security operatives, comprising soldiers, members of the Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes, died while carrying out operations to rescue seven teachers kidnapped during an attack on Ahoro-Esinele Community in Oyo State.

Makinde also confirmed that one of the abducted teachers had been killed by the kidnappers.

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According to him, the victim, said to be a mathematics teacher, was confirmed dead after the government received a video from the abductors.

He expressed condolences to the families of both the slain teacher and the security personnel who died during the operation, assuring that the state government would continue efforts to rescue the remaining victims.

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The governor said injured operatives involved in the mission were receiving treatment, adding that the government would bear the cost of their medical care.

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Makinde stated that security agencies had recorded progress in the investigation, revealing that six suspects had been arrested within the community in connection with the abduction.

Makinde said some of those arrested were suspected informants and logistics suppliers for the kidnappers, while three other persons were apprehended by another security outfit in Oyo State.

He added that the government would continue deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to secure the release of the remaining victims.