Some bandits invaded the Igbosi area of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, destroying two buildings and kidnapping a nine-year-old boy in the early hours of Friday.

It was gathered that the bandits entered the community at about 1am, shooting sporadically to scare residents. They reportedly destroyed two houses before picking up the victim and whisking him away to an unknown destination. The boy, identified as Oluwatobi, is said to be the son of a pastor in the community, Isaac Olaosebikan.

A source said that, on hearing the sporadic gunshots, residents of the community fled their homes and ran to neighbouring communities for safety.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi, who confirmed the incident in a WhatsApp message, said efforts were ongoing to rescue the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.

He said, “The Ondo State Police Command has commenced an intensive manhunt for suspected kidnappers who abducted a nine-year-old boy during a violent attack on residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun, in Ose Local Government Area of the state.

“The incident was reported in the early hours of Friday, 5th June 2026, at about 2:30 a.m. by Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac and Mr. Joel Owalekan, both residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun. According to their reports, at approximately 1:30 a.m. on the same day, a group of armed men invaded the community, firing gunshots sporadically and causing panic among residents.

“During the attack, the assailants reportedly forced their way into the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac. In a desperate attempt to save his life, he escaped into the surrounding bush, leaving behind his nine-year-old son, Master Olaosebikan Victor, who was subsequently abducted by the armed men. Mr. Joel Owalekan also reported that the same group of assailants unlawfully damaged his residence while attempting to gain entry. He similarly escaped the attack by fleeing to safety, thereby avoiding possible harm.”

He added that personnel of the command and the Amotekun Corps had been mobilised to the scene and had launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.

“Security operatives combed the surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators,” the PPRO stated.

Jimoh also noted that investigations had commenced while relevant exhibits had been recovered and documented to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and track down those responsible.

“The State Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, has directed all tactical teams, intelligence units and other relevant security assets to intensify efforts toward the immediate rescue of the victim unhurt and the arrest of the perpetrators.

“The Command is also working closely with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure that the criminals are brought to justice.” (Punch News)

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