By MUFTAU OGUNYEMI

The Ondo State Police Command has commenced a manhunt for suspected kidnappers who abducted a nine-year-old boy at Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of the state.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the spokesperson for the command, made this known in a statement on Friday in Akure.

Jimoh explained that the incident was reported at about 2:30a.m on Friday by Mr Olaosebikan Isaac and Mr Joel Owalekan, both residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun.

“According to their reports, at approximately 1:30a.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 (Isaac) 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(Owalekan) similarly escaped the attack by fleeing to safety, thereby avoiding possible harm,” he stated.

Jimoh said that upon receipt of the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer and his men, in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, immediately mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.

According to him, security operatives are combing the surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators.

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

Jimoh said that the command was working closely with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure that the criminals were brought to justice.

He assured residents that every available resource was being deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted child.

“Members of the public are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may aid ongoing investigations.

“Anyone with credible and actionable information relating to the abducted child or the suspects is encouraged to report promptly to the nearest police station or other security agency,” he said. (NAN)