The Ondo State Police Command has arrested two suspects over alleged conspiracy and attempted child stealing in Ogbagi Akoko, rescuing a three-year-old boy unhurt.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the incident occurred on March 22, 2026, following a report by Mrs. Olanireti, a resident of Ioso Street, Ogbagi Akoko.
The police said the woman had sent her son, Alex Ayobami, to meet his grandmother who lives behind her shop when a concerned passerby raised an alarm after noticing suspicious activity involving the child.
Acting promptly, the mother rushed to the scene and found two men, identified as Adefarati Idowu and Adepoju Babatunde, attempting to escape with the child on an unregistered Bajaj motorcycle.
In a dramatic turn of events, the child’s grandmother, Mrs. Olawale, reportedly held onto the motorcycle, preventing the suspects from fleeing, while other residents quickly mobilised to block their escape.
The police, who arrived shortly after, rescued the child unhurt and arrested the suspects at the scene with the help of community members.
The Command disclosed that the case has been transferred to the State Headquarters for further investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and uncover any possible criminal network.
Commending the residents for their bravery and vigilance, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adebowale Lawal, said their swift action averted what could have resulted in a serious crime.
He emphasised the importance of community policing and urged members of the public to remain watchful and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The police also advised parents and guardians to closely monitor their children at all times to prevent similar incidents.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents of sustained efforts to combat criminal activities across the state.