The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of three staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), assuring that efforts are ongoing to secure their safe release and apprehend the perpetrators.
The Oyo state Police Public Relation Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed this development on Friday afternoon.
The victims were reportedly abducted while inspecting crops on a farm within the premises of the institute.
In a statement confirming the incident, the police said the Command immediately launched intensive operational efforts following the receipt of the report, with a view to rescuing the victims and bringing those responsible to justice.
The Command disclosed that a manhunt had been launched for the kidnappers, adding that security operatives were working to ensure the safe return of the abducted staff members.
It assured members of the public that all necessary measures were being taken to resolve the situation, while reiterating its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
The police also called on anyone with credible information that could assist the ongoing operation to report to the nearest police station or contact the Command through its established emergency channels.
The Command urged the public to cooperate with security agencies as efforts to rescue the victims and track down the suspects continue.
As of the time of the statement, the police had not disclosed the identities of the victims or provided further details about the circumstances surrounding the abduction.