The Ondo State Security Network, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps, has successfully rescued a three-year-old boy, Ifeanyi Emmanuel, who was abducted from Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State and taken to Akure, the Ondo State capital.

The child, who went missing on Thursday, was discovered after what the family described as a distressing and agonizing search. His uncle, Mr. Chidiebere Okwuosa, speaking on behalf of the family, said Ifeanyi was abducted while both parents were away—his father at work and his mother attending a burial ceremony.

“When we returned and couldn’t find him, we immediately began a search with the help of a town crier and later reported the incident to the police. Unfortunately, there was no trace of Ifeanyi,” Okwuosa recalled.

The family’s hope was reignited upon seeing an online report about Amotekun’s rescue of two children, one of whom was said to be from Anambra State. “We sent someone to Ondo to verify, and behold, it was our boy. He was all the way here in Ondo State,” he said with emotion.

Okwuosa expressed deep appreciation for the professionalism and transparency of the Amotekun Corps. “Since we arrived, no one has asked us for a bribe. If it were elsewhere, they might have demanded money. We are truly grateful to the Ondo State Governor and the Amotekun commander,” he added.

Confirming the incident, Commander of the Ondo Amotekun Corps, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, revealed that Ifeanyi was almost sold by a cross-state kidnapping syndicate. “It was initially difficult to trace the boy’s family, but through thorough investigation, we confirmed his identity. He will be handed over to his father once all documentation is completed,” he assured.

Commander Adeleye urged parents to remain vigilant, emphasizing the importance of supervising children closely and promptly reporting suspicious movements or persons to the appropriate authorities. He also noted that while the family rejoiced at the reunion, the child’s mother remains unwell due to the trauma caused bythe ordeal.