The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed a kidnapping incident that occurred on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the incident was reported at about 12:23 p.m. and involved representatives of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter.
The victims were said to have been at the CRIN nursery site to submit their annual collections of cocoa seedlings for the 2026 planting season when they were abducted by unidentified armed men.
The Command disclosed that upon receiving the distress report, a joint security team comprising the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local vigilante groups, and the Amotekun Corps was immediately deployed to the scene.
Security operatives engaged the assailants in a coordinated pursuit, leading to the successful rescue of two male victims. Three suspects were also arrested during the operation and are currently in police custody.
Police authorities added that efforts are ongoing to rescue other victim(s), as operatives have intensified bush combing operations and sustained the manhunt for fleeing members of the gang.
The Command reassured residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Oyo State, urging members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing operations.
Residents were also advised to report emergencies through the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free line (615) or the Police Control Room via 08081768614 and 07055495413.
