A former operative of the Department of State Services, Seyi Adetayo, has disclosed how security operatives secured the release of the abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State after 56 days in captivity without paying ransom or exchanging prisoners.

Speaking during an interview on TVC News on Friday, Adetayo said that intelligence gathering played a crucial role in locating and mounting pressure on the kidnappers.

Adetayo, while explaining the operation, disclosed that security agents identified the kidnappers’ mothers, wives, children and other close associates as part of the intelligence-led operation to secure the victims’ release.

He added that the operatives arrested the relatives, recorded videos of them, and sent the footage to the abductors as part of the strategy that ultimately led to the victims’ freedom.

He said, “They identified the kidnappers’ mothers, wives, children, and close associates. They arrested them, recorded videos, and sent them to the abductors.”

According to him, security forces relied on intelligence to dismantle the kidnappers’ support network.

He said the operatives cut off the abductors’ supply lines and escape routes, while combining coercive measures with negotiations to secure the victims’ freedom.

Adetayo said the strategy ultimately led to the safe rescue of the pupils and teachers after 56 days in captivity, without the payment of a ransom or a prisoner exchange.

His comments followed the Presidency’s confirmation that the abducted pupils and teachers had been rescued alive during a coordinated security operation.

As earlier reported by PUNCH Online, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said eight suspected kidnappers were arrested while several others were killed during the operation.

According to Onanuga, the rescue was carried out without negotiations or concessions to the abductors, despite their demand for the release of one of their detained leaders.

“In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them were neutralised.

“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, whose release the kidnappers demanded, is being prosecuted for his atrocities. The security agencies will give a full account soon,” Onanuga said.

Following their rescue, the pupils and teachers expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the security agencies. In a video released by the Presidency, one of the victims thanked the President for his efforts to secure their freedom.

“We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see it in your heart. Thank you very much,” the victim said.

The President also welcomed the successful operation and commended the security agencies for rescuing the victims safely. (PUNCH)