Security forces are closing in on a kidnapping gang led by an Oriire indigene that abducted 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers from communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, raising hopes that the victims could soon regain their freedom.

According to security sources, troops have surrounded a hideout inside the National Park forest where the captives are believed to be held and have blocked key escape routes, leaving the kidnappers with limited options for movement.

The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked schools in Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota and Alawusa communities, seizing a total of 46 people.

Sources said the kidnappers, now under intense pressure from security operatives, have resorted to desperate tactics, including the reported killing of one of the abducted teachers in an apparent bid to force authorities to halt ongoing rescue efforts.

Investigators identified the gang leader as an indigene of Oriire who was allegedly radicalised by the extremist group Ansaru after living in the area. The affected communities are located near the Kainji axis along Nigeria’s border corridor with Niger Republic, a remote region known for its difficult terrain and poor telecommunications coverage.

The kidnappers initially demanded the release of detained Ansaru commanders, payment of ransom, two Hilux vehicles and the enforcement of Sharia-related laws in the area. However, security sources revealed that the gang has since dropped most of its demands and is now primarily seeking ransom payments.

Authorities believe the attack is linked to increased military operations against terrorist groups such as Ansaru, Boko Haram and ISWAP, which have forced many fighters to abandon traditional strongholds and target vulnerable rural communities.

A senior security official expressed optimism that the victims would soon be rescued, insisting that security forces would sustain the offensive until the criminals are captured, eliminated or driven out of the country.