A nine-year-old boy, son of a local pastor in Idogun community, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, has been reunited with his family after spending about three weeks in the custody of kidnappers.

The boy, identified as Victor Oluwatobi, was abducted on June 5, 2026, when armed men invaded Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun during a midnight attack. The assailants reportedly caused panic in the community and damaged properties while attempting to abduct other residents.

According to residents, the child was taken while he was asleep during the violent raid, sparking shock and distress across the community.

Following the incident, a combined team of security operatives including the police, the Nigerian Army, the Amotekun Corps, and local vigilante groups launched a coordinated search across surrounding forests and settlements in an effort to locate the victim.

After weeks of sustained operations, the boy was eventually released and reunited with his family on Sunday. Details surrounding his release, including whether a ransom was paid or arrests were made, were not immediately disclosed.

Officials in Ondo State commended the security agencies and local volunteers for their efforts in securing the child’s return, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving security in the state.

The incident has once again raised concerns about kidnapping in parts of Nigeria, with residents calling for stronger security measures to protect rural communities. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.