The police command in Oyo State said it rescued two male victims and apprehended three suspects, following distress report about a kidnapping incident at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Idi-Ayunre area, Ibadan.

Earlier on Wednesday, suspected gunmen numbering six invaded the research institute and abducted four Cocoa farmers.

In an update by the command’s spokesman, Ayanlade Olayinka, the police clarified that the victims were representatives of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter.

Mr Olayinka said the victims were at the institute to submit their annual collections of cocoa seedlings for the 2026 planting season.

“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a kidnapping incident reported today, 18th March 2026, at about 1223 hours, at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Idi-Ayunre,” the statement said.

The command noted that a combined security team comprising the police operatives, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local vigilante groups and Amotekun Corps promptly mobilised to the incident scene.

Pursuing the assailants, the police spokesman said decisive efforts led to the rescue of two male victims and timely arrest of three suspects.

“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,” Mr Olayinka said.

He restated that comprehensive bush combing operations are underway to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the fleeing perpetrators.

Bidding for calmness and vigilance, the command assured members of the public of its commitment to safeguard lives and property across the state.