Police rescue kidnapped cocoa farmers and arrest suspects in Oyo
Two cocoa farmers were rescued by the Oyo State Police Command after being kidnapped at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan. According to a statement signed by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the incident happened on 18th March 2026. Security operatives responded quickly, leading to the rescue of the victims and the arrest of suspects. The police are still working to rescue other victim(s) and have assured residents of ongoing efforts to ensure safety.
What happened
- The kidnapping took place at the CRIN nursery site during the submission of annual cocoa seedlings for the 2026 planting season on 18th March 2026.
- A combined team of Police, NSCDC, local vigilantes, and Amotekun Corps responded and pursued the kidnappers.
- Two male victims were rescued, and three suspects were arrested and are now in police custody.
- Efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victim(s) with aggressive bush combing operations.
- The police urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and to assist security agencies with credible information.
