RismadarVoice Reporters
June 5, 2026
The Oyo State Police Command has arrested six suspects believed to be linked to the recent abduction of students and teachers in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
According to security reports, the suspects were apprehended through intelligence-led operations that uncovered communications between local collaborators and the bandits responsible for the abduction.
Despite the arrests, security authorities said the principal kidnappers operating within the forest have not yet been captured and are still evading ongoing military and police operations.
Police investigations identified two suspects, Babangida and Kabiru, as alleged logistics providers, couriers and informants for the kidnappers. They were reportedly arrested in the Ojoo area of Ibadan while attempting to retrieve ransom funds on behalf of the bandits.
Further investigations led to the arrest of three additional suspects identified as Adewuyi, Ayanwola and Rafiu. The suspects are said to have connections to Gbugbu in Kwara State and Ago-Are in Oyo State.
Security sources disclosed that three bank accounts were allegedly used as temporary channels for receiving and distributing funds to the kidnappers hiding in forest locations. The accounts have reportedly come under investigation by the Central Bank of Nigeria and relevant anti-corruption agencies.
Another suspect, Adeleye, a university student, was reportedly tracked and arrested by military personnel after being found in possession of a mobile phone belonging to one of the victims.
Investigators also alleged that ransom-related emails sent to victims’ families were traced to a device linked to the suspect.
The Oyo State Police Command further revealed that investigators intercepted communications between the kidnappers and local informants, including discussions on routes through the Old Oyo National Park that could be used to evade security operatives.
Authorities said investigations are continuing, while efforts to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the principal suspects remain ongoing.
