Four cocoa farmers abducted during a visit to the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria in Ibadan, Oyo State have regained their freedom following a swift and coordinated rescue operation by security agencies.
The farmers were kidnapped last Saturday while at the institute.
Within 24 hours of the incident, security operatives had successfully rescued two of the victims and arrested three suspected kidnappers, while efforts continued to secure the release of the remaining captives.
Sources revealed that the abductors initially demanded a ransom of N100 million, raising fears over the safety of the victims.
Confirming the latest development on Saturday, Akeem Olatunji, Chairman of Oluyole Local Government Area, announced that the remaining two victims have now been freed, bringing the total number of rescued farmers to four.
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He attributed the success of the operation to a joint effort involving the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Western Security Network, and local vigilante groups operating within the area.
According to Olatunji, the rescued victims have since been handed over to the police for further care and debriefing.
He also disclosed that the operation was coordinated by Fatai Owoseni, the Security Adviser to the Oyo State governor, whose leadership played a key role in ensuring the safe return of the victims.
Commending the security agencies for their rapid and effective response, the council chairman reassured residents of continued collaboration with relevant authorities to strengthen security and prevent future incidents.
