Tension gripped Ibadan after suspected gunmen stormed the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria and abducted four visiting cocoa farmers during an official tour.
The attackers reportedly emerged from nearby bushes at the institute’s Idi-Ayunre facility, catching victims off guard before taking them to an unknown location.
Confirming the incident, police spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade said one of the victims has been rescued and is in safe custody, while efforts continue to free the remaining three.
He added that the Commissioner of Police has deployed the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and other tactical teams for intensive bush combing operations to track down the attackers.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of farmers and agricultural facilities, especially in key cocoa-producing areas.
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