Bandits Destroy Houses, Kidnap Pastor’s Nine-Year-Old Son in Ondo

Suspected bandits have kidnapped a nine-year-old boy during an attack on the Igbosi area of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.

 

The attackers reportedly invaded the community around 1 a.m. on Friday, firing gunshots to create panic among residents before destroying two houses and abducting the child.

 

The victim, identified as Oluwatobi Victor Olaosebikan, is the son of a pastor in the community, Isaac Olaosebikan.

 

Residents said the gunshots forced many people to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring communities.

 

Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said it had launched a manhunt for the kidnappers and commenced efforts to rescue the child.

 

Police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi, said the attack was reported at about 2:30 a.m. by Isaac Olaosebikan and another resident, Joel Owalekan.

 

According to him, the armed men stormed the community around 1:30 a.m., shooting sporadically and causing panic.

 

“During the attack, the assailants reportedly forced their way into the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac. In a desperate attempt to save his life, he escaped into the surrounding bush, leaving behind his nine-year-old son, Master Olaosebikan Victor, who was subsequently abducted by the armed men,” the police spokesperson said.

 

Abayomi added that the attackers also damaged the residence of Owalekan while attempting to gain entry, but he escaped unharmed.

 

The police said personnel of the command and operatives of the Amotekun Corps have been deployed to the area and have 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 stated.

 

The command said investigations have commenced, while exhibits recovered from the scene are being analysed to aid efforts to identify and arrest those responsible.

 

The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Felix Ohagwu, has directed tactical teams, intelligence units and other security assets to intensify efforts to secure the victim’s release and bring the perpetrators to justice.

 

The police also said they are working with other security agencies and local vigilante groups as efforts continue to rescue the abducted boy.