Gunmen on Wednesday attacked the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria headquarters in Idi-Ayunre area of Ibadan, Oyo State, abducting several individuals in a brazen operation that has heightened security concerns in the region.
The incident occurred within the premises of the research institute, reportedly around its nursery section, when armed men suspected to be kidnappers emerged from nearby bushes and intercepted their victims.
According to available information, four persons—believed to be cocoa farmers or visitors—were initially taken during the attack. However, swift response by security operatives led to the rescue of one victim, while three others remain in captivity.
The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the development, noting that tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, have been deployed to the area to track down the assailants and secure the safe release of the remaining victims.
Sources disclosed that the attackers, numbering about six, carried out the operation with apparent knowledge of the terrain, taking advantage of the surrounding forested environment to evade immediate capture.
The rescued victim is said to be in safe custody and assisting authorities with useful information that could aid ongoing rescue efforts.
The attack has again drawn attention to the growing insecurity in rural and semi-urban communities, particularly in areas bordered by thick vegetation, which are increasingly being exploited by criminal elements.
As of the time of filing this report, security operations remain ongoing, with authorities assuring residents that efforts are being intensified to apprehend the perpetrators and restore calm in the affected area.
.png)
No comments:
Post a Comment