A nine-year-old boy, identified as Victor Olaosebikan, has been kidnapped by armed men who invaded Igbosi Community in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday, June 5. The gun men arrived the community, firing gunshots and causing panic.
The armed men then barged into the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac, who is a pastor in the community.
Isaac fled 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.