3 Cocoa Research Institute Staff Kidnapped In Ibadan

The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of three staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Ibadan, stating that operational efforts are underway to rescue them.

The victims were abducted on Friday morning, October 9, while inspecting crops on a farm located within the institute’s premises.

In an official statement, the police command disclosed that a tactical manhunt has been launched for the kidnappers, with security operatives combing surrounding areas to track down the suspects and ensure the safe return of the victims.

The command urged members of the public with credible information to contact the nearest police station or reach out through established emergency lines to assist the ongoing operation.

This latest incident adds to a troubling trend of security breaches at the institute’s Ibadan facility. In March this year, four members of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria were abducted at CRIN’s nursery section during a visit to collect seedlings. Additionally, on May 19, armed men invaded the premises and kidnapped two staff members.