The Nigerian Army has disclosed that some security personnel suffered casualties during the operation that secured the release of 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.The victims, kidnapped on May 15, 2026, were rescued on July 10 after more than a month of intelligence gathering and coordinated security operations.The rescue mission was led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General C. R. Nnebeife, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser through the National Counter Terrorism Centre.Other participating agencies included the Defence Headquarters, special forces of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun, local vigilantes and hunters.In a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 2 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Danjuma, the Army said the operation targeted the leaders, informants, hideouts and logistical networks of the group responsible for the abduction.According to the statement, security operatives carried out several arrests in Oyo State and other parts of the country. The actions reportedly disrupted the kidnappers’ network and placed sustained pressure on the group, leading to the unconditional release of the captives.The Army said some of the suspects’ hideouts and logistical links were located within the Old Oyo National Park forest.It added that the operation was carefully planned and executed to protect the abducted children and teachers and prevent civilian casualties. However, some security personnel suffered casualties during the mission. The military did not provide details about their number or condition.The rescued pupils and teachers are receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital. They are expected to be handed over to the Oyo State Government for reunification with their families.Major General Nnebeife thanked President Bola Tinubu for providing strategic guidance and support for the operation.He also commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, residents of the state and the participating security agencies for their cooperation throughout the rescue efforts.The Army further acknowledged the contributions of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence; the Chief of Defence Staff; the service chiefs; the Inspector-General of Police; and the heads of the DSS, NIA and other agencies involved in the operation