By Deborah Nnamdi
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the rescue of Mrs Busayo Adelabu-John Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, who were abducted by gunmen in Ibadan, Oyo State, last week.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday, revealing that the victims were freed during a coordinated operation carried out by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department’s Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT).
According to Placid, the rescue operation was conducted at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday in Ibadan following days of intensive intelligence gathering, surveillance and tactical tracking of the kidnappers’ movements.
He explained that the operation culminated in a confrontation between the suspects and FID-IRT operatives, during which two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded. Security personnel also recovered two rifles from the scene.
The police spokesman stated that Mrs Adelabu-John Paul and her two sons were rescued unharmed and have since been placed in safe custody, where they are receiving medical attention and necessary support.
He added that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the bravery, professionalism and dedication of the operatives involved in the mission, noting that their commitment was instrumental in securing the safe return of the hostages.
Placid further disclosed that security agencies have intensified efforts to apprehend other members of the kidnapping syndicate who escaped during the operation. Preliminary intelligence, he said, indicates that some of the fleeing suspects may have sustained gunshot wounds.
He assured that ongoing operations are focused on tracking down all those connected to the crime and bringing them to justice, while reaffirming the police force’s commitment to protecting lives and tackling violent criminal activities across the country.
The police also expressed appreciation to members of the public for their cooperation, support and patience throughout the rescue effort.
Mrs Adelabu-John Paul, who is the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, was abducted alongside her twin sons in the early hours of June 3 while taking the children to school in Ibadan.
The armed assailants reportedly intercepted her vehicle in the Elewura area of Challenge and forcefully whisked the trio away, triggering widespread concern among residents and political stakeholders in Oyo State.
Their rescue has brought relief to the family and supporters, ending days of anxiety following the high-profile abduction.
