The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two suspects in connection with an attempted child abduction in Ogbagi Akoko, Ondo State, following swift intervention by residents and security operatives.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the incident occurred on March 22, 2026, after a resident, Mrs Olanireti, reported a suspicious situation involving her three-year-old son, Alex Ayobami.
The child had been sent to meet his grandmother, who lives behind the family’s shop on Ioso Street in Ogbagi Akoko.
It was gathered that a concerned passerby raised an alarm after noticing unusual activity involving the child.
Acting quickly, the boy’s mother rushed to the scene and found two men—identified as Adefarati Idowu and Adepoju Babatunde attempting to flee on an unregistered Bajaj motorcycle with the child.
The statement further disclosed that the child’s grandmother, Mrs Olawale, physically held onto the motorcycle in a bid to stop the suspects, while other residents rallied to block their escape.
Their efforts paid off as police officers arrived promptly, leading to the safe rescue of the child, who was unharmed.
The suspects were apprehended at the scene through a joint effort between the community and law enforcement and have since been transferred to police headquarters for further investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the bravery and vigilance of the residents, noting that their swift response averted what could have been a tragic incident.
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He emphasised the importance of community policing in strengthening security across the state.
The police also reiterated their commitment to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the case, including the possibility of a wider criminal network.
Parents and guardians have been urged to remain vigilant and closely monitor their children, while members of the public are encouraged to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The Command further acknowledged the support and leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, stating that his community-focused policing strategy continues to enhance operational effectiveness.
The Ondo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, assuring residents of intensified efforts to combat crime across the state.