Bandits abduct pastor’s son, destroy buildings in Ondo community
Boy Abducted, Properties Vandalized in Ondo State Attack
Idogun, Ondo State — Armed assailants abducted a nine-year-old boy and vandalized two residential buildings during an early morning attack on the Igbosi area of Idogun, located within the Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident unfolded around 1 a.m. on Friday, when the armed men stormed the community, firing shots to instill fear among residents. The boy, identified as Oluwatobi, is the son of local cleric Isaac Olaosebikan.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attack forced many residents to flee their homes in search of safety, with some escaping to neighboring communities amidst the chaos. The assailants damaged two homes before abducting Oluwatobi and fleeing to an undisclosed location.
The spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the abduction and stated that a manhunt for the kidnappers has been initiated. He emphasized the police’s commitment to securing the boy’s release.
“The Ondo State Police Command has commenced an intensive manhunt for the suspected kidnappers,” Ayanlade said. “This violent attack on the residents of Ugbosi Quarters will not go unpunished.”
The police were informed of the incident around 2:30 a.m. by Olaosebikan and another community member, Joel Owalekan. Preliminary reports indicate that the assailants entered the area shortly before 1:30 a.m., causing widespread panic.
According to Ayanlade, the attackers broke into Olaosebikan’s residence while he managed to escape into nearby bushes. “In a desperate attempt to save his life, he fled, leaving his son behind,” Ayanlade noted.
Owalekan also reported that the same group attempted to invade his home, resulting in damage to parts of the structure. He managed to escape unharmed.
Security forces, including operatives from the police and the Amotekun Corps, have been deployed to the vicinity. Their coordinated efforts are aimed at locating the child and apprehending the suspects. Ayanlade mentioned that teams are currently combing nearby forests and potential escape routes.
Investigations are ongoing, with authorities examining evidence collected from the scene to aid in identifying the culprits.
Commissioner of Police Felix Ohagwu has directed tactical units and intelligence operatives to prioritize the safe rescue of the victim and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. The Command is also collaborating with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to facilitate the operation.
