Ex-DSS Operative Reveals How Oyo Pupils and Teachers Were Freed Without Ransom

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.