Gunmen Abduct 9-Year-Old Boy in Ondo, Residents in State of Panic

A sense of fear and anxiety has gripped the residents of Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, following the abduction of a 9-year-old boy by armed men. The incident occurred during a late-night attack on the community, where the assailants stormed the area around 1:30 a.m., firing gunshots and causing widespread panic. The victim, identified as Olaosebikan Victor, was taken away by the gunmen after they forced their way into his father's residence, Olaosebikan Isaac. Isaac managed to escape into a nearby bush to avoid being harmed, while the gunmen seized his son and fled. Another resident, Joel Owalekan, was also targeted during the raid, with the suspects allegedly damaging parts of his building while attempting to gain access to the property. However, Owalekan managed to escape unharmed. The incident was reported to the police, prompting an immediate response from security agencies. According to the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, officers from the division, working alongside personnel of the Amotekun Corps, were deployed to the area shortly after the attack. Abayomi explained that security teams launched a search operation across nearby forests and possible escape routes in a bid to locate the abducted child and apprehend those responsible for the crime. He disclosed that investigations had already commenced, while exhibits recovered from the scene were being analysed to aid efforts to track down the kidnappers. The police are collaborating with other security agencies and local vigilante groups as part of efforts to secure Victor's release and bring the perpetrators to justice. The command has assured residents that all available resources are being deployed to resolve the situation and has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could assist the ongoing operation.