The attackers reportedly invaded the area at about 1 a.m., firing gunshots indiscriminately to instill fear among residents. During the attack, two houses were vandalised before the gunmen seized the child, identified as Oluwatobi, the son of a local pastor, Isaac Olaosebikan, and took him to an unknown location.
Sources in the community said the sound of gunfire forced many residents to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring communities.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said it had launched an operation to rescue the victim and track down those responsible.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, said: “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.
“The incident was reported in the early hours of Friday, 5th June 2026, at about 2:30 a.m. by Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac and Mr. Joel Owalekan, both residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun. 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.
“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. Mr. Joel Owalekan also reported that the same group of assailants unlawfully damaged his residence while attempting to gain entry. He similarly escaped the attack by fleeing to safety, thereby avoiding possible harm.”
The police spokesman disclosed that operatives of the command, working alongside the Amotekun Corps, had been deployed to the area and had begun a coordinated search-and-rescue mission.
“Security operatives combed the surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators,” the PPRO stated.
He added that investigations were underway, with relevant exhibits already recovered and documented as part of efforts to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those involved.
According to him, “The State Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, has directed all tactical teams, intelligence units and other relevant security assets to intensify efforts toward the immediate rescue of the victim unhurt and the arrest of the perpetrators.
“The Command is also working closely with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure that the criminals are brought to justice.”