Suspected bandits have abducted a nine-year-old boy after attacking a community in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, destroying two houses and forcing residents to flee for safety.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday at Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun, where armed men reportedly stormed the area around 1:00 a.m., firing sporadically to terrorize residents.
The abducted child, identified as Victor Olaosebikan, is the son of a local pastor, Isaac Olaosebikan. Witnesses said the gunmen invaded the community, damaged properties and whisked the boy away to an unknown location.
Residents reportedly fled into nearby communities and surrounding areas as gunshots echoed through the settlement during the attack.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the attack was reported at about 2:30 a.m. by two residents, Isaac Olaosebikan and Joel Owalekan.
According to the police, the armed men forced their way into Pastor Olaosebikan’s residence. In an attempt to save his life, he escaped into a nearby bush, leaving behind his son, who was subsequently abducted.
Owalekan also reported that the attackers damaged his residence while attempting to gain entry. He was able to escape without injury.
The police said a joint security operation involving officers of the Ondo State Police Command and personnel of the Amotekun Corps was immediately launched following the attack.
Security operatives have since commenced a coordinated search-and-rescue mission, combing surrounding forests and suspected escape routes in a bid to locate the child and apprehend the perpetrators.
The command added that investigations are ongoing, while relevant evidence recovered from the scene is being analysed to aid efforts to track down those responsible.
Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, has directed tactical teams, intelligence units and other security assets to intensify efforts towards the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of the suspects.
The police said they are also collaborating with other security agencies and local vigilante groups as part of efforts to bring the attackers to justice.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Ondo State, where communities have continued to grapple with cases of kidnapping and attacks by armed groups.
