The police command in Ondo has commenced a manhunt for suspected kidnappers who abducted a nine-year-old boy at Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun in Ose LGA.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the spokesperson for the command, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

Mr Jimoh explained that the kidnapping was reported at about 2:30 a.m. on Friday by Olaosebikan Isaac and 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 (Isaac) 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 (Owalekan) similarly escaped the attack by fleeing to safety, thereby avoiding possible harm,” he stated.

The divisional police officer and other operatives, in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, immediately mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation, according to the statement.

The police said relevant exhibits had been recovered and documented to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and track down the attackers.

Mr Jimoh said that the command was working closely with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure that the criminals were brought to justice. He assured residents that every available resource was being deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted child.

(NAN)