Kidnap Victims Rescued, Three Suspects Arrested in Oyo CRIN Attack

The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of two kidnapped victims and the arrest of three suspects following an abduction incident at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Idi-Ayunre.

The incident, which occurred around 12:23 p.m. on Wednesday, involved representatives of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State chapter, who were reportedly at the CRIN nursery site to submit cocoa seedlings for the 2026 planting season when they were attacked by unidentified gunmen.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, a joint security team comprising the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes swiftly responded to a distress call and launched a coordinated operation.

The security operatives engaged the attackers in a pursuit, leading to the rescue of two male victims and the arrest of three suspects, who are currently in police custody.

The police said efforts are ongoing to secure the release of other victim(s), with operatives intensifying bush combing operations and tracking down fleeing members of the gang.

The Command assured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to remain calm and support ongoing operations by providing useful information to security agencies.

Residents were also advised to make use of the state’s emergency lines in case of distress.

OYO NEWS