Fear spread across parts of Ibadan after gunmen reportedly stormed the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Idi-Ayunre and abducted two staff members.
The incident happened on Monday evening and immediately triggered a large security response across the area. However, the Oyo State Police Command dismissed rumours circulating online about a mass abduction in Ibadan and nearby communities.
According to police authorities, the attack involved a targeted operation carried out by armed men who later escaped into nearby forest areas with the victims.
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the command confirmed that the incident occurred on Monday, 19th May 2026, at about 6:00 p.m.
The report was first made by the Chief Security Officer of the Cocoa Research Institute at the Idi-Ayunre Divisional Police Headquarters.
Furthermore, police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene for an on-the-spot assessment and preliminary investigation.
Authorities revealed that about six armed men invaded the premises before abducting the victims to an unknown destination.
Meanwhile, the identities of the kidnapped staff members were not disclosed at the time of filing this report.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbemiga, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams and intelligence operatives.
In addition, members of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad were mobilised to strengthen rescue efforts and track down the attackers.
The police command stated that bush-combing operations and coordinated searches were launched across surrounding forests and nearby locations connected to the attack.
During one of the operations on Tuesday morning, police operatives intercepted two suspicious individuals identified as Shehu and Abubakar.
According to preliminary findings, the suspects allegedly provided useful information about the hideout of other members of the kidnapping gang.
However, the situation quickly turned tense when officers reportedly came under heavy gunfire while approaching the suspected location.
The armed men were believed to be members of the same kidnapping syndicate.
Meanwhile, police operatives responded to the attack and successfully repelled the gunmen during the exchange.
The command confirmed that the two suspects were safely extracted from the area and are currently being held by the Anti-Kidnapping Squad for further investigation.
The Oyo State Police Command also moved to calm public fears over reports claiming there was a widespread kidnapping attack across Ibadan.
Authorities stressed that the incident was isolated to the Cocoa Research Institute area in Idi-Ayunre.
Furthermore, residents were advised to avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating panic within communities.
Security patrols have also been intensified around strategic locations as investigations continue.
