KEY POINTS

• Armed men attacked a community in Ondo State and kidnapped a nine-year-old boy.
• Residents fled into nearby bushes as the attackers fired gunshots and damaged homes.
• Security agencies have launched a rescue operation and intensified efforts to arrest the kidnappers

A nine-year-old boy has been abducted by armed men following a midnight attack on residents of Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun Ido-Ani, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, around 1:30 a.m., when a group of gunmen reportedly stormed the community, firing gunshots indiscriminately and throwing residents into panic.

According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, Jimoh Kazeem, the armed men forcefully entered the area and targeted several homes.

One of the victims, Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac, reportedly fled into a nearby bush in an attempt to escape the attackers. However, in the process, he was forced to leave behind his nine-year-old son, Master Olaosebikan Victor, who was subsequently kidnapped by the gunmen.

The police said the assailants took the child away after gaining access to the family’s residence.

Another Resident Escapes Attack

The statement also revealed that another resident, Mr. Joel Owalekan, narrowly escaped harm during the incident.

According to the police, the attackers attempted to force their way into his residence and damaged parts of the building. Owalekan managed to flee to safety before the gunmen could gain access to him.

Following reports of the attack, the Divisional Police Officer and his team, working alongside operatives of the Amotekun Corps, immediately moved to the community and commenced a search-and-rescue operation.

Security personnel have since been combing nearby forests and possible escape routes in an effort to locate the abducted child and apprehend the kidnappers.

The police command disclosed that investigations into the incident have begun. Relevant exhibits were recovered and documented as part of efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.

The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, has directed all tactical units, intelligence teams, and other security assets within the command to intensify efforts aimed at rescuing the victim and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The police said they are collaborating with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to strengthen the search operation and improve security in the affected area.

The command assured residents that all available resources are being deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped boy. It also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide any useful information that could assist ongoing investigations and rescue efforts.