A joint security operation involving multiple agencies and local stakeholders has led to the safe return of the last two cocoa farmers abducted from the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, CRIN, in Ibadan, Oyo state capital.
The farmers were taken during a visit to the institute on Saturday, March 21, but a swift and coordinated response by security operatives ensured their release.
Authorities also apprehended three suspects linked to the abduction within 24 hours of the incident.
While it remains uncertain whether any ransom was paid, sources indicated that the kidnappers had issued demands during the ordeal.
Confirming the development, the Chairman of Oluyole local government, Akeem Olatunji, stated that all victims had been freed.
He credited the successful outcome to the combined efforts of the police, the directorate of state services, the western security network, and the local vigilance group in Oluyole.
According to him, the rescued farmers have since been handed over to the police, with the operation coordinated by the security adviser to the Oyo state governor, Fatai Owoseni.
Olatunji commended the agencies involved for their collaboration and reassured residents of his administration’s continued partnership with security forces to maintain safety in the area.
In a short statement, the public relations officer of the Oyo state police command, Ayanlade Olayinka, also confirmed that all four kidnapped cocoa farmers have regained freedom.
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