BREAKING: Three CRIN Staff Abducted In Ibadan As Police Launch Rescue Operation

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

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident on Friday afternoon.

The victims were reportedly abducted while inspecting crops on a farm within the institute’s premises.

In a statement, the police said the Command launched intensive operational efforts immediately after receiving the report, with a view to securing the victims’ release and bringing those responsible to justice.

The Command disclosed that a manhunt had been launched for the kidnappers, adding that security operatives were working to ensure the safe return of the abducted staff members.

The police urged anyone with credible information that could assist the operation to report to the nearest police station or contact the Command through its established emergency channels.

It also called on members of the public to cooperate with security agencies as efforts to rescue the victims and track down the suspects continue.

The Command assured residents that necessary measures were being taken to address the situation, reiterating its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

The latest incident comes months after two separate kidnapping incidents at the institute. On March 18, four members of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria were abducted at CRIN’s nursery section while visiting to collect cocoa seedlings. The victims were later released.

In another incident on May 19, two CRIN staff members were abducted after armed men reportedly invaded the institute’s premises. Police launched a rescue operation and arrested suspects in connection with the incident.

As of the time of the police statement, the identities of the three latest victims and further details surrounding their abduction had not been disclosed.