The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of four suspected kidnappers and the killing of two others during a high-risk rescue operation that secured the freedom of the sister of former Minister of Power and APC governorship aspirant, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, alongside her twin sons.
The victims were rescued during an overnight tactical operation carried out in the Ayegun area of Oluyole Local Government Area of Ibadan, following intelligence gathered by security operatives on the whereabouts of the Kidnappers.
Police authorities said the operation, which lasted several hours into Sunday, was launched after investigators received credible information that led operatives to a hideout where the suspects were allegedly keeping the victims.
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The kidnappers were reportedly traced to a three-bedroom bungalow in Ayegun, where security forces stormed the premises in a coordinated raid.
Addressing journalists at the scene, Oyo State Commissioner of Police Abimbola Ayodeji said the rescue mission was made possible through actionable intelligence and sustained surveillance by security personnel.
According to the police chief, officers encountered armed resistance from the suspects, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
During the confrontation, two of the suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while four others were apprehended and taken into custody for further investigation.
Security operatives also recovered several weapons from the scene, including pump-action guns and other firearms believed to have been used by the criminal gang during their operations.
Police sources disclosed that some members of the gang escaped during the gun battle but are suspected to have sustained gunshot injuries. A manhunt has been launched to track down the fleeing suspects.
The successful operation brought relief to residents and political associates of Chief Adebayo Adelabu, whose sister and children had been held captive before their rescue.
The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over kidnapping and violent crimes in parts of Oyo State and the wider South-West region, where security agencies have intensified efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating along major highways and rural communities.
The Oyo State Police Command has assured residents that investigations are ongoing and that all individuals connected to the kidnapping will be identified and prosecuted.
Authorities also urged members of the public to continue providing timely information that could assist security agencies in preventing criminal activities and rescuing victims.
