CDS Deploys Spy Aircraft and Special Forces Over Oyo Kidnappings

CDS Deploys Spy Aircraft, Special Forces Over Oyo Abductions

Military intensifies surveillance and ground operations as kidnapping incidents raise security concerns in Oyo State

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has ordered the deployment of special forces and aerial surveillance aircraft to Oyo State following recent kidnapping incidents in the area.
Military authorities say the move is part of renewed efforts to track down armed groups responsible for the attacks and restore security across affected communities.

Military vows sustained operations
Speaking during a briefing on Tuesday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria are fully aware of the security situation in Oyo State and have expressed sympathy to affected families and residents.

He said the Chief of Defence Staff has directed a comprehensive reinforcement of security operations, including the use of advanced aerial surveillance platforms and specialised ground troops working alongside relevant state authorities.

According to him, intelligence-driven operations have already begun yielding useful information, and troops will maintain sustained pressure until those behind the kidnappings are arrested.

Operational updates nationwide
The Defence Headquarters also released its operational statistics for May 2026, indicating ongoing military activities across different regions of the country.

According to the report, troops arrested over 300 suspects, rescued kidnapped victims, and neutralised several terrorists during operations carried out in different theatres.
The military also reported recoveries of weapons and petroleum products, as well as the dismantling of illegal refining sites.

Recent attacks in Oyo State
Security concerns in Oyo State increased following the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

During the incident, one teacher was killed, while another was reportedly killed in captivity, according to earlier reports. In a separate incident, gunmen also kidnapped staff members of a research institute in Ibadan, further heightening public concern over safety in the state.

Authorities say some of the attackers are believed to be members of terrorist groups displaced from the North-East.
The Defence Headquarters praised troops for their ongoing operations and urged commanders to maintain momentum while prioritising civilian protection.

It also called on residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence to assist ongoing operations. Officials say community cooperation remains a key factor in improving security outcomes across affected regions.

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Adesokan Oluwasegun is a journalist and blogger with four years of experience, specializing in politics, business and economy, metro reporting and editorial writing that provides analysis and opinion on key issues .