I've heard that there were 4 helicopters involved. But with all the spin going on by the White House, it's anybody's guess.
After the screw-up with the Iran hostage attempt under Carter, I'd think they would have assets on standby for a major operation. Have backup helicopters at the ready to go in. Without a body for independent verification, they could have him in a black-site now hanging by his balls. Or they might not have him at all. Who knows?