Bandits Storm Ondo Community, Destroy Homes, Abduct Pastor’s 9-Year-Old Son

Armed bandits invaded the Igbosi area of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State in the early hours of Friday, destroying two residential buildings and abducting a nine-year-old boy during the attack.

According to reports, the attackers stormed the community at about 1:00 a.m., firing gunshots indiscriminately to instill fear among residents. The gunmen reportedly vandalised two houses before abducting the child, identified as Oluwatobi, the son of a local pastor, Isaac Olaosebikan.

Residents said the sound of gunfire 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 intensified efforts to rescue the abducted child.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed in a statement that the incident was reported around 2:30 a.m. on Friday by Mr. Isaac Olaosebikan and Mr. Joel Owalekan, both residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun.

According to the police, the armed men invaded the community at about 1:30 a.m., shooting sporadically and causing panic among residents. The attackers reportedly forced their way into the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan. In an attempt to escape, the pastor fled into the surrounding bush, leaving behind his nine-year-old son, Master Olaosebikan Victor, who was subsequently abducted.

Mr. Owalekan also reported that the gunmen damaged his residence while attempting to gain access. He managed to escape unharmed by fleeing the scene.

DSP Jimoh stated that personnel of the Police Command and the Amotekun Corps were immediately deployed to the area and had commenced a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.

“Security operatives have combed surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators,” he said.

The police spokesperson added that investigations had begun, with relevant evidence recovered and documented to aid efforts to identify and arrest those responsible for the attack.

Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, has directed tactical teams, intelligence units, and other security formations to intensify efforts toward the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of the suspects.

The Police Command also assured residents that it was collaborating with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure the criminals are brought to justice.