The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, says bandits holding abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State have threatened to kill their victims if security forces move closer to their hideout.
Musa disclosed this in an interview preview with News Central, saying the kidnappers were using the captives as bargaining tools to demand the release of some of their commanders in military custody.
According to him, the bandits warned security agencies against any rescue operation, threatening to harm the victims if troops advanced on their location.
The victims include 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15.
Musa also expressed support for the death penalty for banditry and kidnapping, arguing that tougher punishments are needed to discourage violent crimes.
He said existing laws are not strong enough and called for stronger legal measures to address insecurity in the country.
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