Police Dismiss Helicopter Transfer Claim, Intensify Search for Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that schoolchildren and teachers abducted from communities in Orire Local Government Area were transported to Kaduna State by helicopter, describing the claim as false, misleading, and without any factual basis.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the Command became aware of a viral video alleging that victims abducted from Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities had been moved out of Oyo State by air.
Ayanlade said investigations revealed that the information contained in the video was entirely unverified and should be disregarded by members of the public.
According to him, the report lacks credibility and does not meet the standard of authenticity required for information relating to sensitive security matters.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that the content of the said video is entirely false, unverified, misleading, and devoid of any factual basis,” he said.
The police assured residents that intensive efforts are ongoing to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers, stressing that security agencies have strengthened operations to rescue the victims and bring those responsible for the abduction to justice.
Ayanlade noted that the Police Command is working closely with other security and intelligence agencies to ensure the successful rescue of all victims and their reunification with their families.
“Intensive rescue operations remain ongoing. The Oyo State Police Command, in close collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, has significantly intensified efforts aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of all abducted victims, their prompt reunification with their families, and the apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for the unfortunate incident,” he stated.
The Command also expressed concern over the spread of misinformation surrounding the incident, warning that false reports could undermine public confidence in security operations and hinder ongoing rescue efforts.
It described the circulation of unverified information as irresponsible and capable of creating unnecessary panic among residents while distracting security personnel from their duties.
“The Command is deeply concerned about the deliberate spread of misinformation and disinformation by certain individuals seeking to undermine public confidence in the ongoing rescue efforts and the sacrifices being made daily by security personnel working tirelessly to secure the release of the victims,” the statement added.
The police further warned that individuals or groups found responsible for creating or circulating false information aimed at discrediting security agencies would face legal consequences.
It urged residents to remain calm and rely only on information released through official and verified channels, while supporting security agencies in their ongoing efforts to secure the release of the victims.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the Command stated that all available resources have been mobilised to ensure the safe return of the abducted children and teachers.
“The Oyo State Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property and assures the public that every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe return of the abducted children and teachers,” the statement concluded.