A nine-year-old boy, identified as Victor Olaosebikan, has been abducted by suspected gunmen who invaded Igbosi Community in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, during a midnight attack that left two buildings damaged and residents fleeing for safety.
The attackers reportedly stormed the community in the early hours of Friday, firing gunshots and causing panic before whisking the child away to an unknown destination.
The victim is said to be the son of a pastor in the community.
Sources said the armed men forcefully entered the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac, who is a pastor in the community.
In an attempt to save his life, Isaac reportedly escaped into the surrounding bush, leaving behind his son, Victor, who was subsequently abducted by the assailants.
Another resident, Mr. Joel Owalekan, also reported that the gunmen vandalised his residence while attempting to gain entry.
He also escaped unharmed after fleeing the area.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Ondo State, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the matter was reported to the police at about 2:30 a.m. on Friday.
Jimoh stated that security operatives immediately swung into action following the distress report.
“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.
“Security operatives combed the surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators,” he said.
The police spokesman added that investigations have commenced, with relevant exhibits recovered and documented to aid efforts in uncovering the circumstances surrounding the attack and track down those responsible.
He appealed to members of the public with credible information on the whereabouts of the abducted child or the suspects to promptly report to the nearest police station or any security agency.
Meanwhile, local vigilante groups and operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, have intensified search operations across nearby forests and surrounding communities as efforts continue to secure the safe return of the abducted boy.
