A nine-year-old boy, identified as Olaosebikan Victor, has been abducted by suspected gunmen during a midnight attack on Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident reportedly occurred at about 1:30 a.m. when heavily armed assailants invaded the community, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents.
According to reports, the attackers forced their way into the residence of Victor’s father, Olaosebikan Isaac. Amid the confusion, Isaac reportedly fled into a nearby bush to escape being shot, while the gunmen seized his son and whisked him away to an unknown destination.
The assailants were also said to have targeted the home of another resident, Joel Owalekan, damaging parts of the building while attempting to gain access. Owalekan, however, escaped unharmed.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said security operatives responded swiftly after receiving reports of the attack.
He disclosed that the Divisional Police Officer, alongside operatives of the Amotekun Corps, immediately launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation aimed at rescuing the abducted child and tracking down the perpetrators.
According to him, security teams combed nearby forests and other suspected hideouts while intensifying surveillance across possible escape routes.
Abayomi said investigations have commenced and exhibits relevant to the case were recovered from the scene.
“All tactical teams, intelligence units and other relevant security assets have been directed to intensify efforts toward the immediate rescue of the victim unharmed and the arrest of the perpetrators,” he said.
The police spokesperson added that the command is working closely with sister security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure the safe return of the child and the apprehension of those responsible for the attack.
He assured residents that every available resource is being deployed to secure Victor’s release and restore calm to the affected community.
Abayomi also appealed to members of the public to support ongoing efforts by providing useful information that could aid the rescue mission.
“Anyone with credible and actionable information relating to the abducted child or the suspects is encouraged to report promptly to the nearest police station or any security agency,” he stated.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over rising cases of kidnapping and violent attacks in parts of Ondo State, with residents calling for stronger security measures to safeguard communities from criminal elements.
