The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of representatives of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, Idi-Ayunre. Two victims have been rescued and three suspects arrested.

The incident took place at about 12:23 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Members of the Ogun State chapter of the association were at the institute’s nursery site to submit their annual cocoa seedling collections for the 2026 planting season.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the victims were abducted by unidentified armed men who attacked the facility.

This prompted a swift response from security agencies. A joint security team, consisting of the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, and local vigilante groups, quickly mobilised to the scene and initiated a coordinated operation to track down the assailants.

The security operatives pursued the kidnappers, resulting in the rescue of two male victims. The command stated that three suspects were arrested during the operation and are currently in police custody.

Efforts is ongoing to secure the release of any other victims, with security personnel intensifying bush-combing operations and maintaining pressure on the fleeing criminals.

The command reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state. It urged the public to remain calm and vigilant, while also encouraging residents to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in apprehending the perpetrators.