The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of three staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Ibadan, assuring the public that efforts are underway to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.
The three workers were reportedly kidnapped on Friday, October 9, 2026, while inspecting crops on a farm within the institute’s premises in Ibadan.
Following the incident, the police said they immediately commenced intensive security operations aimed at securing the victims’ release and bringing the suspected kidnappers to justice.
In a statement, the command disclosed that a manhunt had been launched for the perpetrators, while security operatives continued efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted staff members.
The police also appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist investigators in locating the victims and tracking down the suspects.
Residents with useful information were advised to report to the nearest police station or contact the command through its established emergency channels.
The command further urged the public to cooperate with security agencies as operations to rescue the victims and arrest the suspected kidnappers continue.
Previous Kidnapping Incidents at CRIN
The latest abduction has renewed attention on previous kidnapping incidents involving individuals connected to the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria.
In March 2026, four members of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria were reportedly abducted from the institute’s nursery section while visiting the facility to collect cocoa seedlings.
Another incident occurred on May 19, when two CRIN staff members were reportedly kidnapped after armed men invaded the institute’s premises.
The latest incident adds to the series of reported abductions linked to the research facility in Ibadan.
As of the time of this report, the police had not announced the rescue of the three staff members or the arrest of any suspects in connection with the October 9 incident.
The command said security operations were continuing, with the immediate priority being the safe return of the victims and the apprehension of those behind the abduction.
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