The Oyo State Government has demolished a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in Ibadan where Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons were recently held captive before their rescue by security operatives.

The demolition followed a coordinated operation by the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) and other security agencies, which successfully stormed the forest-based hideout after days of surveillance and intelligence gathering.

Security sources said the victims were abducted on June 3, 2026, while Mrs. John-Paul was taking her children to school in the Elewura area of Ibadan. The incident prompted a swift response from police tactical teams in collaboration with the Oyo State Police Command.

During the rescue operation, security operatives reportedly engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, leading to the neutralisation of at least two suspects and the recovery of firearms from the scene.

The remaining members of the gang were said to have fled into surrounding forest areas. The victims were successfully rescued on June 6 and later reunited with their family after receiving medical attention and psychological support.

Following the rescue, the Oyo State Government moved in to demolish the criminal hideout as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks operating within the state. Officials say the action is aimed at preventing the reuse of such locations for criminal activities.

Security agencies have confirmed that mop-up operations are still ongoing to track and arrest fleeing members of the gang, while investigations continue into possible wider kidnapping networks operating across Oyo State and neighbouring areas.

The successful operation has been described by security authorities as a significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping in the state, which has recently witnessed renewed concerns over abductions targeting residents and commuters.

Authorities have assured residents of continued security operations aimed at restoring public confidence and curbing criminal activities across affected communities.