Summary: Six armed men kidnap four cocoa farmers at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan. Police rescue one victim as search continues for others.
In a disturbing security breach, six armed gunmen have abducted four cocoa farmers at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) located in the Idi-Ayunre area of Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
Details of the Kidnapping Incident
The unfortunate incident occurred on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, when some of the victims were at the prestigious research institute for a familiarisation visit. According to reports gathered by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the attack happened in broad daylight, sending shockwaves through the agricultural community.
An eyewitness who narrowly escaped the attack narrated the terrifying ordeal to journalists. The cocoa farmer, who managed to flee when the chaos began, explained that the armed men emerged suddenly from the surrounding bushes and ambushed their vehicle as they were heading to the Nursing Section within the institute’s premises.
“They just came out from nowhere and blocked our vehicle. We didn’t even have time to think before they started ordering people out,” the shaken farmer recounted.
Police Response and Rescue Operations
The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and immediately swung into action. DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command’s spokesperson, briefed reporters on Wednesday in Ibadan, providing updates on the ongoing rescue efforts.
In what offers a glimmer of hope, Olayinka disclosed that one of the four kidnapped victims has been successfully rescued by security operatives, and his vehicle has also been recovered. The rescued victim is currently in safe custody, undergoing debriefing with investigators to provide crucial information about the kidnappers and their hideout.
Security Operation Intensifies
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Mr. Femi Haruna, has taken the matter seriously and directed the Anti-Kidnapping Unit to collaborate with other tactical teams to support the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Idi-Ayunre.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), security operatives have launched an intensive bush combing operation in the surrounding forests and bushes where the kidnappers are suspected to be hiding with their captives.
“Our men are currently conducting thorough searches in the bush areas around CRIN. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victims and arrest the perpetrators,” DSP Olayinka assured the public.
Growing Concerns Over Farmers’ Safety
This latest incident adds to the growing security concerns facing farmers across Nigeria, particularly in the Southwest region. Cocoa farmers, who contribute significantly to Nigeria’s agricultural exports and economy, now face the additional burden of insecurity while trying to earn their livelihood.
The Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, where this attack occurred, is a federal government establishment dedicated to research and development in cocoa production. The fact that such an incident could happen within the premises of a government institution raises serious questions about security arrangements at agricultural facilities across the country.
As the search and rescue operation continues, residents of Idi-Ayunre and surrounding communities remain anxious, hoping for the safe return of the three remaining victims.
The police have urged anyone with useful information about the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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