Heroic female thwarts abduction of toddler in Ondo

The Ondo State Police Command revealed that a suspected child theft attempt was thwarted by a woman, resulting in the arrest of two suspects by community members in Ogbagi Akoko.

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A statement issued on Wednesday, signed by Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the incident occurred on March 22, 2026, following a report by Mrs. Olanireti ‘F’.

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According to the statement, Mrs. Olanireti ‘F’ had sent her three-year-old son, Alex Ayobami ‘M’, to his grandmother, prompting a concerned resident to raise an alarm upon noticing suspicious activity involving the child.

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The police reported that suspects Adefarati Idowu ‘M’ and Adepoju Babatunde ‘M’ were intercepted while attempting to flee on an unregistered Bajaj motorcycle with the child.

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The child's grandmother, Mrs. Olawale ‘F’, intervened by holding onto the motorcycle, while other residents mobilised and blocked the suspects from escaping, ultimately leading to their arrest.

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The statement confirmed that the child was successfully rescued unhurt, attributing the successful apprehension of the suspects to the collective efforts of community members and the police.

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The case has been transferred to the headquarters for a "discreet and thorough investigation", with ongoing efforts to uncover any wider criminal network connected to the incident.

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Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal commended the community for its vigilance and prompt response, noting that the incident highlights the importance of community policing and the critical role citizens play in supporting security agencies.

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The command advised parents and guardians to remain vigilant and urged members of the public to report suspicious activities to security agencies.

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The police reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents of continued efforts to curb criminal activities across the state.