Armed bandits have abducted a nine-year-old boy and destroyed two houses during a violent attack on the Igbosi area of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The attackers reportedly stormed the community at about 1:00 a.m. on Friday, firing sporadically to scare residents before vandalising properties and kidnapping the victim, identified as Oluwatobi, the son of a local pastor, Isaac Olaosebikan.
According to sources in the community, the gunshots triggered panic among residents, forcing many to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring communities.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said the attack was reported at about 2:30 a.m. by residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, explained that the armed men invaded the area around 1:30 a.m., shooting indiscriminately and creating fear among residents.
According to the police, the assailants forced their way into the residence of Pastor Isaac Olaosebikan. In an attempt to save his life, the cleric escaped into a nearby bush, leaving behind his son, Master Olaosebikan Victor, who was subsequently abducted by the attackers.
Another resident, Joel Owalekan, reportedly escaped unharmed after the gunmen damaged his residence while attempting to gain access.
The police spokesperson disclosed that operatives of the Ondo State Police Command, working alongside members of the Amotekun Corps, have launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.
Security personnel have since combed surrounding forests and possible escape routes in a bid to rescue the kidnapped child and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
The command also confirmed that investigations have commenced, while relevant exhibits recovered from the scene are being examined to aid efforts to track down the perpetrators.
Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, has directed tactical teams, intelligence units and other security formations to intensify efforts toward the immediate rescue of the victim and the arrest of the suspects.
The police further assured residents that they are collaborating with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure the kidnappers are brought to justice.
The latest attack has heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of Ondo State, particularly in communities bordering forested areas that have increasingly come under threat from kidnappers and other criminal elements.
