The Oyo State Government flattened a two-storey building in Lakoun Estate, Ibadan, on Monday. The structure served as the hideout where kidnappers held Mrs Olaide Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons for four days.
State Commissioner of Police Oluwagbemiga Abimbola led a security assessment team to the site on Sunday. The team confirmed the building was used exclusively by the kidnapping syndicate. Demolition crews from the Ministry of Public Works arrived at dawn, escorted by armed police units.
Two kidnappers were killed during the rescue operation on Saturday. Police recovered two AK-47 rifles, 47 live rounds, and a Toyota Hilux believed to be the abductors' escape vehicle. Four suspects arrested at the scene remain in police custody at Eleyele headquarters.
The victims were abducted on June 3 while driving to school. Intelligence reports indicate the kidnappers demanded ₦50 million ransom. Police sources say the gang had operated in the area for at least six months, targeting high-net-worth individuals.
Governor Seyi Makinde ordered the demolition as part of a new state-wide anti-kidnapping policy. The policy includes mandatory demolition of any property linked to kidnapping within 48 hours of rescue. Security agencies have launched a manhunt for three remaining gang members still at large.
