NAF Deploys Surveillance Aircraft To Aid Rescue Of Abducted Oyo Pupils And Teachers

The Nigerian Air Force has stepped up efforts to secure the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State by deploying surveillance aircraft to support ongoing rescue operations.

The victims, including pupils and teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School, were kidnapped on May 15 during an attack by armed bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Reports indicate that one teacher was killed while in captivity.

In a statement issued by NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde revealed that the Air Force swiftly deployed an aerial surveillance platform shortly after the incident was reported.

According to the governor, intelligence gathered through the surveillance missions has provided valuable support to security agencies conducting search-and-rescue operations and tracking the whereabouts of the abductors.

Makinde explained that the aerial surveillance effort has strengthened ongoing security operations by supplying critical intelligence aimed at facilitating the safe rescue of the victims.

The governor made the disclosure while receiving a delegation representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Hasan Abubakar, as security agencies continue coordinated efforts to locate the abducted pupils and teachers and bring those responsible to justice.

The deployment of surveillance aircraft forms part of broader measures by security forces to combat rising insecurity and improve intelligence gathering in affected communities across the country.