Residents of Igbosi Community in Idogun, located in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, were thrown into fear after armed men reportedly invaded the area in the early hours of Friday, injuring several people and abducting a nine-year-old boy.
According to reports, the attackers stormed the community around 1:00 a.m., firing gunshots indiscriminately and causing panic among residents. Many villagers reportedly fled into nearby bushes and surrounding areas to avoid being caught in the violence.
During the attack, some residents sustained injuries while trying to escape. The gunmen were also said to have damaged homes and destroyed property before leaving the community.
The kidnapped child, identified as Master Olaosebikan Victor, is the son of a well-known pastor in the area.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said security operatives had launched an operation to rescue the boy and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
Speaking on the development, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, stated that the matter was officially reported in the early hours of Friday.
He explained that residents, Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac and Mr. Joel Owalekan, reported that armed men invaded Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun around 1:30 a.m., firing gunshots and creating panic within the community.
Jimoh disclosed that the attackers allegedly broke into the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac. In an attempt to escape, Isaac reportedly fled into the bush, leaving behind his nine-year-old son, who was later taken away by the assailants.
He also noted that the attackers attempted to force their way into the residence of Mr. Joel Owalekan, damaging parts of the property. Owalekan reportedly escaped unharmed after fleeing to safety.
The police spokesperson further revealed that officers, alongside operatives of the Amotekun Corps, responded swiftly after receiving the distress call. Security personnel reportedly launched a coordinated search operation, combing nearby forests and suspected escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and track down the perpetrators.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing, with evidence already collected to aid efforts in identifying and arresting those involved.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, has directed tactical and intelligence units across the state to intensify efforts toward securing the safe return of the victim and bringing the suspects to justice.
The police also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and support ongoing investigations by sharing any useful information that may assist security agencies in rescuing the child and apprehending the criminals.
