Gunmen Strike Ondo, Abduct Pastor’s 9-Year-Old Son

Author: Jonadab

Publisher: DocuNews Central

Date: 2026-06-05T14:30:00+01:00

A fresh kidnapping incident has been reported in Ondo State after armed men invaded a community in Ose Local Government Area and abducted a nine-year-old boy identified as the son of a pastor. The attack reportedly caused panic among residents, while several people sustained injuries during the operation.

According to information confirmed by the Ondo State Police Command, the attackers entered the area during the early hours of Friday and fired gunshots. Residents fled for safety as the armed men moved through the community. Subsequently, the assailants escaped with the child before security operatives arrived.

The incident occurred on June 5, 2026, at Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State. Reports submitted to the police indicated that the attack happened at about 1:30 a.m. Meanwhile, residents alerted authorities at approximately 2:30 a.m. after the gunmen had left the area.

What Happened During the Attack?

Available information indicates that a group of armed men stormed the community under the cover of darkness. Witness accounts provided to security authorities stated that the attackers fired sporadic gunshots, creating fear among residents and forcing many people indoors.

During the invasion, the gunmen reportedly targeted households within the area. As panic spread across the community, residents attempted to protect their families and seek safety. However, the attackers succeeded in abducting the young boy before leaving the scene.

Although details regarding the exact number of injured residents remain unclear, reports indicate that some individuals sustained injuries during the incident. Authorities have not released additional medical information regarding those affected.

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Who Is Involved?

The victim is a nine-year-old boy reported to be the son of a pastor residing within the affected community. At the time of publication, officials had not publicly disclosed the child’s identity.

Residents identified as Olaosebikan Isaac and Joel Owalekan reportedly notified law enforcement authorities about the attack. Their report formed part of the initial information used by investigators after the incident became known to security agencies.

The Ondo State Police Command has taken over the investigation. Police spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh confirmed the incident and stated that efforts were underway to locate the abducted child and apprehend those responsible.

Police Launch Manhunt

Following the attack, security personnel commenced a search operation across affected areas and surrounding communities. According to police authorities, investigators have begun gathering intelligence that may assist in identifying the kidnappers.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh said the command had initiated a manhunt for the suspects. The police also appealed for cooperation from members of the public who may possess useful information regarding the movement or activities of the attackers.

Law enforcement agencies frequently rely on community intelligence during kidnapping investigations. Consequently, authorities often encourage residents to report suspicious activities immediately to improve response times and increase the likelihood of successful rescue operations.

Security Concerns in Ose Local Government Area

The latest attack has renewed attention on security challenges affecting parts of Ose Local Government Area. The area has experienced several security incidents in recent years, including attempted kidnappings and attacks on travelers.

In May 2026, police operatives reportedly foiled an attempted kidnapping along the Idogun-Imeri axis and rescued two victims after receiving distress information. Authorities stated that officers engaged the attackers and disrupted the operation before additional victims could be taken away.

Security analysts note that criminal groups often exploit remote road networks and forested areas to evade detection. Therefore, security agencies continue to increase patrol activities and intelligence gathering in vulnerable locations across the state.

Recent Kidnapping Cases in Ondo State

The abduction of the pastor’s son is not an isolated incident. Over recent months, Ondo State has recorded several kidnapping-related cases that have drawn public attention and triggered security responses.

Last week, police announced the arrest of five suspected kidnappers allegedly linked to abduction activities in parts of the state. Investigators stated that the arrests followed reports involving kidnapped schoolchildren, while security operatives also recovered suspected ransom proceeds during the operation.

Earlier in the year, authorities confirmed the abduction of six church worshippers in Owo Local Government Area. Police subsequently launched investigations into that case and intensified security operations in affected communities.

In another incident reported in April, gunmen attacked a poultry farm in Akure North Local Government Area. The attack resulted in fatalities and additional abductions, prompting renewed calls for stronger security measures throughout the state.

Official Response

The Ondo State Police Command has maintained that efforts are ongoing to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state. Authorities continue to conduct patrols, intelligence operations and targeted enforcement actions aimed at disrupting criminal networks.

According to police officials, collaboration between law enforcement agencies, local security groups and community members remains essential to improving public safety. Consequently, residents have been encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements.

The police have also emphasized the importance of accurate information sharing. This follows recent instances in which authorities debunked unverified kidnapping reports circulating on social media platforms. Officials stated that verified information assists security agencies in responding effectively to genuine threats.

Community Reaction

Residents of Idogun and neighboring communities have expressed concern over the latest attack. Community members continue to await updates regarding the whereabouts of the abducted child while hoping for his safe return.

Many residents have called for increased security presence within rural settlements and along major access roads. Furthermore, community leaders are expected to engage security agencies on additional measures that could help prevent future attacks.

Although investigations remain active, the full circumstances surrounding the kidnapping have yet to be established. Authorities have not announced any arrests connected to the case as of the time of publication.

Ongoing Investigation

According to DocuNews Central, the kidnapping investigation remains ongoing. Security agencies are pursuing leads while conducting search operations aimed at locating the abducted boy and identifying all individuals involved in the attack.

Officials have urged members of the public to provide credible information that could assist investigators. Meanwhile, residents continue to monitor developments as law enforcement authorities intensify efforts to secure the child’s release.

The case remains one of the latest security incidents reported in Ondo State and highlights continuing concerns regarding kidnapping activities affecting several communities across the region. Additional updates are expected as investigators release new information.

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