By Ismail Azeez
The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed a kidnapping incident at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan, with two victims rescued and three suspects arrested during a swift security operation.
This was contained a press release issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the incident occurred at about 12:23 p.m. when representatives of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, were abducted by unidentified armed men.
The victims were reportedly at the CRIN nursery site to submit their annual collections of cocoa seedlings for the 2026 planting season when the attack happened.
According to the police, a combined security team comprising operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local vigilante groups, and the Amotekun Corps was immediately mobilised to the scene following a distress call.
“Information available to the Command indicates that representatives of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, who were at the CRIN nursery site to submit their annual collections of cocoa seedlings for the 2026 planting season, were abducted by unidentified armed men.
“Upon receipt of the distress report, a combined security team comprising the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local vigilante groups, and Amotekun Corps swiftly mobilized to the scene and engaged the assailants in a coordinated pursuit.
“This prompt and decisive response led to the successful rescue of two male victims. In the course of the operation, three suspects were arrested and are currently in police custody.
“Intensive efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victim(s), as security operatives have commenced aggressive bush combing operations and sustained pursuit of the fleeing criminals.
“The Command assures the public that it remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property across the State. Members of the public are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing operations,” he said.
Residents were also advised to report emergencies through the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free line, 615, or the Police Control Room numbers: 08081768614 and 07055495413.