The Oyo State Police Command on Wednesday confirmed the rescue of two abducted cocoa farmers and the arrest of three suspects following a kidnapping incident at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan.
The command disclosed that the attack occurred at about 12:23 p.m. on March 18, 2026, when gunmen struck at the institute’s nursery site.
According to the police, the victims—members of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State chapter—were at the facility to submit their annual cocoa seedlings for the 2026 planting season when they were ambushed by armed assailants.
Spokesperson for the command said a joint security team comprising operatives of the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes was immediately deployed to the scene following a distress call.
“The combined team swiftly engaged the criminals in a coordinated pursuit, leading to the successful rescue of two male victims and the arrest of three suspects, who are currently in custody,” the statement said.
The police, however, noted that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of other abducted victims, adding that operatives had launched aggressive bush-combing operations to track down fleeing members of the gang.
“The command has intensified efforts to rescue the remaining victim(s) and apprehend all perpetrators involved in the attack,” it added.
The command reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information to aid ongoing operations.
It also advised residents to utilise emergency contact channels, including the Oyo State toll-free line 615 and other police control room numbers.
Earlier reports indicated that about six gunmen emerged from a nearby bush and intercepted a vehicle conveying the farmers within the institute’s premises.
A survivor was quoted as saying the attackers struck without warning, creating panic before whisking away four occupants to an unknown destination.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
