Gunmen invade Ondo community, kidnap pastor's son

Some gunmen attacked the Igbosi area of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State. They destroyed two buildings and kidnapped a nine-year-old boy early on Friday morning.

The attack happened around 1am. The gunmen fired shots to scare the residents. After causing chaos, they took the boy away to an unknown location. The boy's name is Oluwatobi, and he is the son of a local pastor, Isaac Olaosebikan.

According to a source, when residents heard the gunfire, they ran from their homes to find safety in nearby communities.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi, confirmed the incident in a WhatsApp message. He said efforts are ongoing to rescue the boy and catch the kidnappers.

He said, “The Ondo State Police Command has started a serious manhunt for the kidnappers who took a nine-year-old boy during a violent attack on Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun, in Ose Local Government Area of the state.

“This attack was reported early on Friday, 5th June 2026, around 2:30 a.m. by Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac and Mr. Joel Owalekan, both from Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun. They reported that at about 1:30 a.m. that day, a group of armed men invaded the community, firing shots randomly and causing panic among the residents.

“During the attack, the assailants broke into Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac's home. In a bid to save his life, he ran into the nearby bush, leaving his nine-year-old son, Master Olaosebikan Victor, behind. The armed men then took him away. Mr. Joel Owalekan also reported that the same group damaged his home while trying to get in. He escaped by running to safety, avoiding any harm.”

The PPRO added that police and the Amotekun Corps were sent to the area. They have started a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.

“Security operatives searched the nearby forests and possible escape routes to rescue the kidnapped boy and catch the attackers,” the PPRO stated.

Jimoh also mentioned that investigations are in progress. Relevant evidence has been collected to understand what happened and to find those responsible.

“The State Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, has ordered all tactical teams, intelligence units, and other security forces to work hard to rescue the boy safely and arrest the kidnappers.

“The Command is also collaborating with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure that the criminals are brought to justice.