The Oyo State Police Command has arrested six individuals allegedly connected to the abduction of pupils and staff from schools in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, as investigations into the incident continue.
According to security sources, the suspects were identified through telephone communications believed to have linked them to the kidnappers responsible for the attack.
Authorities, however, clarified that the arrested individuals are not among the main bandits currently hiding in the forest, as efforts to track down and apprehend the masterminds behind the abduction remain ongoing.
Investigations revealed that some of the suspects allegedly acted as informants and couriers for the kidnappers. Two commercial motorcyclists were reportedly arrested in Ibadan while attempting to collect ransom payments, while three other suspects were apprehended during follow-up operations in Oyo and Kwara states.
A university student was also taken into custody after security operatives reportedly traced a victim’s mobile phone to him.
Police sources disclosed that intercepted communications suggested some of the suspects provided information and directions that helped the kidnappers navigate difficult terrains and avoid security checkpoints during their operations.
Despite existing NIN-SIM registration policies, officials reportedly noted that the main kidnappers have been using sophisticated communication methods, including call-routing and network-masking technology, to conceal their identities and locations.
Meanwhile, security agencies have intensified financial investigations linked to the case. Reports indicate that bank accounts allegedly connected to the suspects have been frozen after authorities traced ransom payments through multiple accounts before the funds were reportedly transferred to the kidnappers.
The police say investigations are still ongoing as security agencies continue efforts to rescue the abducted victims and bring all those involved in the crime to justice.
Source: Oyo State Police Command and security reports.
