ARMED bandits have kidnapped a nine-year-old boy after attacking a community in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State during the early hours of today.
The attackers reportedly stormed the Igbosi area of Idogun at about 1 a.m., firing gunshots into the air and causing panic among residents.
During the invasion, two houses were damaged while the assailants abducted the child, identified as Oluwatobi, the son of a local pastor, Isaac Olaosebikan.
Residents were said to have fled their homes and sought refuge in neighbouring communities after hearing the gunfire.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said it had launched an intensive operation to rescue the victim and track down those responsible for the attack.
According to the command, the incident was reported at about 2:30 a.m. on June 5 by Isaac Olaosebikan and another resident, Joel Owalekan.
Preliminary reports reveal that a group of armed men invaded Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun around 1:30 a.m., shooting sporadically and creating fear across the community.
Police said the attackers forced their way into Olaosebikan’s residence.
The pastor reportedly escaped into a nearby bush to save his life, but his son, Master Victor Olaosebikan, was left behind and subsequently taken away by the gunmen.
Authorities also disclosed that Owalekan’s residence was damaged by the same group while they attempted to gain access. He escaped unharmed after fleeing the area.
The Police Public Relations Officer stated that officers of the command, alongside personnel of the Amotekun Corps, were immediately deployed to the scene and have begun a coordinated search-and-rescue mission.
Security operatives have since been combing surrounding forests and suspected escape routes in an effort to locate the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators.
The police added that investigations are underway, with evidence recovered from the scene being examined to aid efforts to identify and arrest those behind the attack.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, has directed tactical units, intelligence teams, and other security personnel to intensify efforts to ensure the safe rescue of the child and bring the attackers to justice.
The command said it is also collaborating with other security agencies and local vigilante groups as efforts continue to secure the victim’s release and prevent further attacks in the area.
