Suspected gunmen have reportedly, abducted four cocoa farmers at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria located in the Idi-Ayunre area of the city.
It was gathered that the kidnappers about six in number, struck while the victims were within the institute’s premises. Some of the farmers were reportedly visiting the facility for a familiarisation tour when the attack occurred.
A farmer who narrowly escaped recounted that the gunmen emerged suddenly from a nearby bush and intercepted their vehicle as they were heading toward the institute’s Nursing Section.
The police public relations officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Oyo state, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed that one of the kidnapped farmers had been rescued, while his vehicle was also recovered.
The state Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, has since ordered a coordinated response involving the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and other tactical teams to support the Divisional Police Officer in Idi-Ayunre. Security operatives have commenced intensive bush combing operations aimed at rescuing the remaining victims and apprehending the perpetrators.
Police assured the safety of the rescued victim , adding that he was undergoing debriefing, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the others.
The incident adds to growing concerns over security in farming communities and research facilities, particularly in agrarian hubs across Oyo State, where farmers have increasingly become targets of criminal activities.
