Bandits destroy houses, kidnap pastor’s nine-year-old son in Ondo

A community in Ondo State, Nigeria, was targeted by bandits early Friday morning, resulting in the destruction of homes and the abduction of a nine-year-old boy. The attack occurred in the Igbosi area of Idogun, Ose Local Government Area, around 1 a.m.

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The Ondo State Police Command has commenced an intensive manhunt for suspected kidnappers who abducted a nine-year-old boy during a violent attack on residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun, in Ose Local Government Area of the state.

Residents reported hearing sporadic gunfire as the bandits invaded the community, causing panic and prompting many to flee to neighboring areas for safety. The assailants reportedly forced their way into the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac, the father of the abducted child, Oluwatobi. Mr. Olaosebikan managed to escape into the bush, but his son was taken by the armed men.

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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.

Another resident, Mr. Joel Owalekan, reported that his home was also unlawfully damaged during the attack. He, too, escaped unharmed by fleeing the scene.

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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 Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi, confirmed the incident and stated that an intensive manhunt is underway. Personnel from the police command and the Amotekun Corps have been mobilized and are conducting a coordinated search-and-rescue operation in the surrounding forests and potential escape routes. Investigations have also commenced to apprehend the perpetrators and understand the circumstances of the attack.

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Security operatives combed the surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators.