Two staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) have been abducted by suspected kidnappers in Oyo State, prompting an intensive security operation by the police and other security agencies.
The victims, said to be employees of the institute, were reportedly kidnapped while carrying out official duties around the institute’s operational area. Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that the abductors ambushed the workers and whisked them away to an unknown destination, creating panic among colleagues and residents in the area.
Confirming the development, the Oyo State Police Command said it had launched a coordinated rescue operation and had already arrested two suspects believed to be linked to the abduction.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state stated that security operatives acted swiftly after receiving distress information, leading to the arrest of the suspects during preliminary investigations. According to the police, efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining members of the kidnapping gang and secure the safe release of the abducted workers.
“The command has intensified search and rescue efforts, while investigations are ongoing to dismantle the criminal network behind the attack,” the police spokesperson said.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, especially in communities located near forests and research facilities. Staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute and residents have called on the government and security agencies to strengthen surveillance and protection around the institute and surrounding areas.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and provide useful information that could assist in the rescue mission and the arrest of other suspects involved.
The Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, located in Ibadan, is one of the country’s leading agricultural research institutions, playing a vital role in cocoa production and related crop development.