Residents of Idogun community in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State were thrown into panic after suspected bandits invaded the town, destroyed several houses and abducted a nine-year-old boy, the son of a local pastor.
According to sources within the community, the armed assailants stormed the area late at night, firing sporadically and causing residents to flee for safety. During the attack, several buildings were reportedly vandalised, while valuable property belonging to residents was destroyed.
Witnesses said the attackers forcefully took away the young boy from his family’s residence, leaving the community in fear and uncertainty. The abducted child is said to be the son of a respected pastor in the area.
The incident has heightened concerns over the growing insecurity in parts of Ondo State, with residents calling on security agencies and the government to take urgent steps to protect lives and property.
Community leaders condemned the attack and appealed to the abductors to release the child unharmed. They also urged authorities to strengthen security presence in vulnerable rural communities to prevent further attacks.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said efforts were underway to rescue the victim and apprehend those responsible for the attack. Police authorities assured residents that tactical teams had been deployed to the area and that investigations had commenced.
As of the time of filing this report, the whereabouts of the kidnapped boy remained unknown, while security operatives continued search-and-rescue operations in and around the affected community.
Residents have meanwhile appealed for calm and cooperation with security agencies as efforts intensify to secure the safe return of the child and restore peace to the community.