Ologuneru Drama: Police Order Identification, Arrest of All Individuals Involved in Mob Attack, Arson Over False Kidnapping Allegation Against US-Based Doctor in Ibadan
The Oyo State Police Command on Tuesday confirmed the rescue of a United States-based medical doctor, identified as Dr. Afolabi, from an angry mob following a false kidnapping alarm in Ibadan.
The incident occurred on Monday around the 2nd Powerline Area, Ologuneru, Eleyele–Ido Road, after residents accused the doctor of attempting to kidnap two young girls found inside his Lexus RX 330 SUV.
Police officers from Eleyele Division responded to a distress call and rescued him from being lynched, although the mob had already set his vehicle ablaze before their arrival.
Police investigations later revealed that the two girls, Deborah, 15, and Rebecca, 12, were not kidnapped.
According to the police, the girls had been legally handed over to Dr. Afolabi by Mrs. Idowu Abimbola of Eleyele, Ibadan, to assist his mother with household chores.
The woman reportedly confirmed the arrangement during questioning at the police station, while the girls also supported her account.
The police explained that the misunderstanding began when the doctor was stopped for routine checks at the Polytechnic gate.
Suspicion reportedly grew after the girls were seen inside the vehicle and struggled to communicate properly in English or the local language.
His attempt to leave the checkpoint allegedly further fueled suspicion, leading to the false alarm and subsequent mob attack.
Dr. Afolabi sustained injuries during the assault and was rushed for medical treatment by the police.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, condemned the mob action and warned against jungle justice and the spread of unverified information.
He also ordered a full investigation into the incident and directed the arrest of those involved in the attack and destruction of property.