Bandits have abducted a nine-year-old boy after invading Igbosi Community along Imeri Road, Idogun, in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State. The gunmen stormed the community around 1:00 am on Friday with sporadic gunshots, after which they forced their way into the residence of Pastor Isaac Olaosebikan. The pastor was said to have fled from the house upon sighting the gunmen, but his son, Victor Olaosebikan, was subsequently seized by the kidnappers.

According to sources, the gunmen in their attempt to gain entrance into some houses during the operation destroyed some buildings and left the community around 2:30 pm unchallenged. When contacted over the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Abayomi Jimoh, who confirmed the attack, stated that an intensive manhunt has been launched on the fleeing suspected kidnappers.

The police spokesperson stressed that upon the receipt of the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer and his men, in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, immediately mobilized to the scene and launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.

He said, “The incident was reported in the early hours of Friday, 5th June 2026, at about 2:30 a.m. by Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac and Mr. Joel Owalekan, both residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun.

“According to their reports, at approximately 1:30 a.m. on the same day, a group of armed men invaded the community, firing gunshots sporadically and causing panic among residents.

“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.

“Mr. Joel Owalekan also reported that the same group of assailants unlawfully damaged his residence while attempting to gain entry. He similarly escaped the attack by fleeing to safety, thereby avoiding possible harm.

“Security operatives combed the surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators. Investigations have commenced while relevant exhibits have been recovered and documented to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and track down those responsible.

“The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, psc, mnips, mspsp, has directed all tactical teams, intelligence units, and other relevant security assets to intensify efforts toward the immediate rescue of the victim unhurt and the arrest of the perpetrators.

“The Command is also working closely with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure that the criminals are brought to justice.

“The Command assures residents that every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe rescue of the abducted child. Members of the public are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may aid ongoing investigations.”

“Anyone with credible and actionable information relating to the abducted child or the suspects is encouraged to report promptly to the nearest police station or other security agency.”