The Oyo State Police Command has launched a massive manhunt and rescue operation following the abduction of pupils, students and school staff during coordinated attacks on schools and communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In a statement issued on Friday and shared on its X handle, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the attacks occurred in the early hours of May 15, 2026, when armed hoodlums riding motorcycles invaded schools in the area.

According to the police, the attackers simultaneously struck Baptist Nursery and Primary School and Community Grammar School, which shares premises with L.A Primary School.

The assailants reportedly abducted several pupils, students and staff members, including the Vice Principal, Mrs. Alamu Folawe.

The police, however, stated that no pupil or student had been confirmed killed as of the time the report was filed.

“Preliminary investigation reveals that the assailants, who operated on motorcycles, simultaneously attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota as well as Community Grammar School/L.A Primary School, Esiele, abducting some pupils, students and staff members including the Vice Principal, Mrs. Alamu Folawe,” the statement said.

The command confirmed that an assistant headmaster identified as Mr. Adesiyan was killed during the attack.

It also disclosed that an okada rider was shot dead after reportedly resisting attempts by the attackers to seize his motorcycle.

According to the police, the attackers fled with a Toyota Corolla belonging to the abducted Vice Principal before later setting the vehicle ablaze along a road leading to the forest.

The police said tactical teams, operational assets and intelligence platforms had been deployed to the affected communities to prevent further breakdown of law and order, rescue the abducted victims and apprehend those responsible.

“The command assures residents that intensive operations are ongoing and urges members of the public to remain calm, vigilant and supportive by providing timely and credible information that could aid the investigation and rescue efforts,” the statement added.