A nine-year-old boy, Victor Olaosebikan, has been abducted by armed men who invaded Igbosi Community in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State in the early hours of Friday.
The attack triggered panic in the community as the gunmen reportedly fired several gunshots before storming residential buildings.
Pastor’s Son Taken During Raid
According to reports, the attackers forced their way into the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac, a pastor in the community.
Isaac reportedly escaped into a nearby bush during the attack, but his son, Victor, was left behind and was taken away by the gunmen.
The incident has heightened fears among residents over growing security concerns in the area.
Another Resident Escapes
A resident, Mr. Joel Owalekan, also recounted how the armed men attempted to break into his home.
He said the attackers vandalised parts of the building while trying to gain access, but he managed to escape unharmed after fleeing the area.
No casualties were reported during the attack.
Police, Amotekun Launch Rescue Operation
Confirming the incident, Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the matter was reported to security authorities at about 2:30 a.m. on Friday.
He stated that police officers and operatives of the Amotekun Corps immediately launched a joint operation to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the attackers.
“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,” Jimoh said.
“Security operatives combed the surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators.”
Investigation Ongoing
The police spokesperson disclosed that investigations have commenced, while relevant exhibits recovered from the scene have been documented to aid ongoing efforts.
He appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could assist security agencies in locating the abducted boy and tracking down the suspects.
Residents were urged to report any credible information to the nearest police station or security agency.