The Nigeria Police Force has disclosed that two suspected kidnappers were killed during the operation that led to the rescue of relatives of Adebayo Adelabu, former minister of power in Ibadan, Oyo state.
The victims, Olaide John-Paul, Adelabu’s younger sister and Peter and Pau, her 12-year-old twin sons regained their freedom on Saturday following a coordinated rescue mission by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department’s Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT).
The family members were abducted on June 3 while on their way to school in Ibadan after being reportedly trailed from their residence by armed men.
Confirming the development, DCP Anthony Placid, the force public relations officer said the rescue operation was carried out around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday after days of intelligence gathering, surveillance and tactical operations.
According to him, investigators tracked the movement of the kidnappers, leading to a confrontation between the suspects and operatives of the FID-IRT.
“The rescue was achieved through sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tactical operations. These efforts enabled investigators to track the kidnappers’ movements, resulting in a confrontation with FID-IRT operatives.
“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.
The police spokesperson added that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the kidnapping gang who escaped during the operation.
He noted that intelligence reports indicated some of the fleeing suspects sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire.
“Operations are ongoing to track, arrest, and bring all involved to justice,” he added.
The Inspector-General of Police also commended the operatives for their professionalism, courage and determination, describing their actions as instrumental to the successful rescue of the victims.
