Former Department of State Services (DSS) operative Seyi Adetayo has claimed that the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State was achieved without the payment of ransom after security agencies arrested the wives, mothers, and other close relatives of suspected terrorists linked to the kidnapping.
Speaking during an interview on TVC, Adetayo dismissed suggestions that the abduction was organized within a day or two, arguing that such operations typically require months of planning.
"International terrorist organizations don't plan operations within a day or two days. It can take them up to six months. These are professionals, and it's something they've been doing for years," he said.
According to Adetayo, security agencies relied on intelligence gathering and technology to identify individuals connected to the kidnapping network. He said the DSS had prior intelligence on some suspects and subsequently tracked their associates and family members across multiple states.
The former intelligence officer claimed that authorities arrested several associates and close relatives of the suspects as part of a broader strategy to pressure the kidnappers while maintaining communication with the group.
He also disclosed that the kidnappers reportedly demanded the release of one of their alleged kingpins who is currently facing prosecution. Adetayo said the government rejected the request, describing the decision as a significant national security measure.
According to him, the kidnappers were still operating within the Oyo forest when security operatives launched the rescue mission.
He said security forces moved quickly to surround the area and prevent the victims from being transferred to the Kainji forest, which he described as the group's operational base.
Adetayo further compared the operation with the response to the Chibok schoolgirls' abduction, arguing that the faster intervention in the Oyo incident helped prevent a prolonged hostage situation.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed Adetayo's claims regarding the arrest of suspects' relatives or whether those actions contributed to the victims' release. Official details of the rescue operation remain limited.
.jfif)
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