The Department of State Services (DSS) and the military successfully secured the release of 38 worshippers abducted from a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, officials have confirmed.
He said: “They made contact with the bandits to secure the release of the captives. Security agencies have systems for tracking these criminals, allowing them to monitor developments in real time.
“They reached out to the kidnappers and demanded the release of the victims, and they complied, aware of the consequences of defying government directives.”
He said the bandits were unarmed during the operation and ultimately complied with government demands, understanding the serious consequences of refusing to release the victims.
Onanuga emphasised that the top priority of the operation was the safety of the abducted worshippers.
“In such kidnappings, civilians are often used as human shields, making any direct military intervention extremely risky,” he said.
By relying on careful intelligence and strategic communication, security forces were able to secure the hostages without escalating violence.
When asked whether any agreement was reached with the kidnappers, Onanuga clarified that the government’s main concern was the immediate release of the victims.
Any further actions, including arrests, prosecutions, or additional operations, would be handled by the security agencies following standard procedures.
He also highlighted the importance of patience and planning in managing such sensitive operations.
According to Onanuga, the coordination between the DSS and the military ensured that the operation was conducted smoothly, avoiding harm to the hostages and minimising risks to security personnel.
The successful operation has drawn praise from government officials and residents, underlining the critical role of intelligence-led strategies in resolving abductions.
All 38 worshippers have now been reunited with their families safely, marking a significant achievement for security agencies in the state.