By Adesakin Adefemi
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the rescue of Olaide John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, after a targeted operation in Ibadan on Saturday night. The family had been violently abducted three days earlier during a school run.
Two members of the kidnapping syndicate were shot dead during a confrontation with police operatives, while two rifles were recovered at the scene. The Nigeria Police Force disclosed that the rescue was executed at about 7:30 pm by the Force Intelligence Department’s Intelligence Response Team.
The victims were abducted on June 3, 2026, while on their way to school in Ibadan, Oyo State. Reports said the abductors trailed them from their residence before intercepting and whisking them away, sparking widespread concern across the city.
Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, said the operation succeeded after sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tactical tracking of the kidnappers’ movements. He noted that the criminals attempted to engage the specialised team, leading to the confrontation.
“During the confrontation, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded, and two rifles were recovered. The victims were rescued unharmed and are now in safe custody, receiving medical care and support,” Placid stated in an official release.
The Inspector-General of Police commended the courage, precision, and resilience of the FID-IRT operatives, saying their commitment was instrumental in securing the safe release of the hostages. He assured that efforts would continue until all members of the syndicate are brought to justice.
Police said intelligence indicates that some suspects escaped with gunshot injuries and that operations are ongoing to track, arrest, and prosecute them. Security operatives have intensified patrols and intelligence work in and around Ibadan to dismantle the network.
The successful rescue comes as authorities step up operations against kidnapping gangs in Oyo State and the wider Southwest. The incident had raised fresh concerns about the safety of children on school routes, prompting calls for increased security.
For now, the Adelabu family is focused on the recovery of John-Paul and her sons. Police say further updates will be provided as investigations progress and more suspects are apprehended.
