Suspected bandits have kidnapped a nine-year-old boy after attacking Igbosi area of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State in the wee hours of Friday.
During the attack, the criminal elements reportedly destroyed two residential buildings and fired several gunshots, forcing residents to flee the community in search of safety.
The attackers, according to sources stormed the community at about 1am, shooting indiscriminately to create fear among residents before abducting the child, identified as Oluwatobi, the son of a local pastor, Isaac Olaosebikan.
A local disclosed that many villagers abandoned their homes and escaped to neighbouring communities after hearing the gunfire.
While confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said efforts were underway to rescue the victim and bring those responsible to justice.
The police spokesman, DSP Abayomi stated: “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 said operatives of the command, working alongside personnel of the Amotekun Corps, had been deployed to the affected area and had begun a coordinated search 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.
He further disclosed that investigators had commenced inquiries into the incident, while exhibits recovered from the scene were being examined to aid efforts to identify and track the attackers.
According to him: “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.
