IBADAN — Two suspected kidnappers have been shot dead during a fierce gun battle with security operatives in Ibadan, Oyo State, leading to the successful rescue of a woman and her 12-year-old twin sons.

The victims, Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her twin boys, Peter and Paul, were liberated unharmed during a high-stakes tactical raid at around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.

The family`s ordeal began on the morning of Wednesday, June 3, 2026, when armed men intercepted Mrs. Adegoke at roughly 7:30 a.m. while she was driving her children to school.

Following the incident, the Force Intelligence Department`s Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) launched a massive counter-kidnapping operation. Through intensive surveillance and advanced digital tracking, investigators successfully pinpointed the gang’s movements and located the hideout.

When tactical teams closed in on the location, the kidnappers opened fire, triggering a violent confrontation.Two suspects were fatally wounded in the shootout.Two rifles were recovered at the scene by tactical operatives.The victims were safely retrieved without injury and are currently receiving medical attention and trauma support.

The Inspector-General of Police praised the FID-IRT operatives for their resilience, professionalism, and swift tactical execution.

Meanwhile, police units have cordoned off the general area as a manhunt intensifies for remaining gang members. Intelligence reports indicate that several suspects escaped into the surrounding bush with severe gunshot wounds.

In an official statement, Force Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Okon Placid thanked the public for their cooperation and patience during the delicate operation, reaffirming the police force`s unwavering commitment to neutralizing violent crime networks.