The Oyo State Government has demolished a building allegedly used by kidnappers to hold the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and her twin sons during their days in captivity.
The three-bedroom bungalow, located in the Lako Community along Aiyegun–Anaye Road in Ibadan, was pulled down on Monday following investigations into the kidnapping case that shocked residents of the state.
Mrs. Olaide John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons were abducted on June 3 while she was taking the children to school. The incident triggered widespread concern and a massive security operation to secure their release.
After spending several days in captivity, the victims were rescued and reunited with their family on Saturday.
Following the successful rescue, security agencies intensified investigations, leading to the arrest of suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate.
According to the Oyo State Police Command, operatives uncovered evidence suggesting the suspects had monitored the family for weeks before carrying out the abduction.
Police spokesperson Ayanlade Olayinka disclosed that the gang allegedly conducted surveillance on the family, tracked their movements and even attempted to recruit an insider within the household before launching the attack.
“The suspects carried out weeks of surveillance on the family and photographed their movements before executing the kidnapping,” he said.
During the rescue operation, two suspected kidnappers were reportedly killed in a gun battle with security operatives, while another suspect identified as Wale Abolalewa, popularly known as ‘Oloro,’ was arrested.
Police said the suspect was already on their watchlist over alleged involvement in similar criminal activities.
The demolition of the building is seen as part of ongoing efforts by authorities to dismantle criminal hideouts and send a strong warning to kidnappers operating within the state.
Investigations into the activities of the gang are still ongoing as security agencies continue the hunt for other fleeing members of the syndicate.
Source: Oyo State Government / Oyo State Police Command
