The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed receipt of a viral video circulating on various media platforms in connection with the abduction incident that occurred in Oriire Local Government Area of the state on Friday.
The development was disclosed on Sunday in a statement issued in Ibadan by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Olayinka Ayanlade.
The victims were reportedly abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and Community Grammar School/L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area at about 9:30 a.m. on Friday.
According to Ayanlade, the command has commenced a detailed forensic examination of the viral footage to verify its authenticity and support ongoing investigations, rescue operations, as well as efforts to identify and apprehend those behind the attack.
“Consequently, the footage is presently undergoing comprehensive forensic examination to determine its authenticity and further aid ongoing investigations, rescue operations, as well as the identification and arrest of the perpetrators behind the heinous act,” the statement read.
The police spokesperson assured residents that the command remained committed to securing the safe return of all abducted persons and reuniting them with their families.
He added that security operatives had intensified intelligence-driven and tactical operations in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure the victims are rescued unharmed and those responsible are brought to justice.
Ayanlade also appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist ongoing investigations and rescue efforts.
The command warned against the spread of unverified information and misleading content capable of escalating tension or causing panic within affected communities.
According to the police, such misinformation could be exploited by criminal elements and other enemies of peace to undermine security operations.
Residents with useful information relating to the incident were advised to promptly report to the nearest security agency or appropriate authorities for immediate action.
The command reiterated its resolve to restore normalcy in the affected communities and ensure that all individuals connected to the incident face prosecution in accordance with the law.
