A nine-year-old boy, Master Victor Oluwatobi, who was abducted by gunmen in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, has regained his freedom after spending about three weeks in captivity.
The victim, son of a pastor, was rescued on Sunday through the combined efforts of security agencies and has since been reunited with his family.
Master Oluwatobi was kidnapped on June 5, 2026, when armed men reportedly stormed Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun at about midnight.
The assailants allegedly destroyed two buildings while attempting to abduct the landlords, who managed to escape.
In the course of the attack, Pastor Oluwatobi was unable to evacuate all his children before fleeing the scene, leaving the young boy behind.
The child, who was reportedly asleep during the invasion, was subsequently taken away by the kidnappers.
Following the incident, the Ondo State Government mobilised security agencies, including the Army, Police, Amotekun Corps and local vigilantes, to intensify search and rescue operations across forests and surrounding communities.
Confirming the development, the Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, commended the security agencies for their commitment and resilience in securing the safe release of the victim.
He also appreciated all individuals and groups who contributed to the successful rescue operation.
Residents of the area have expressed gratitude to the Ondo State Government and security operatives for their efforts, describing the boy’s rescue as a relief to the community and his family.
The successful operation is being seen as a boost to ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state.
