A woman's swift action foiled an attempted child theft in Ogbagi Akoko, Ondo State, on March 22, 2026. The would-be kidnappers, identified as Adefarati Idowu and Adepoju Babatunde, were attempting to flee with a three-year-old boy, Alex Ayobami, on an unregistered Bajaj motorcycle when community members intervened.

The child's grandmother, Mrs. Olawale, played a crucial role in the rescue by holding onto the motorcycle, while other residents blocked the suspects' escape route. The police were called in, and the suspects were eventually apprehended.

The Ondo State Police Command has transferred the case to its headquarters for further investigation. The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the community for its vigilance and prompt response, highlighting the importance of community policing.

The police have urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and have advised the public to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

The Ondo State Police Command's response to this attempted kidnapping is a welcome development, but it also raises questions about the effectiveness of community policing in preventing such crimes. The fact that community members were able to apprehend the suspects suggests that there is a level of trust and cooperation between the police and the public. However, the incident also highlights the need for more proactive measures to prevent child theft and other forms of crime. The police's commitment to protecting lives and property is commendable, but it is essential that they follow through on their promises with concrete actions.