Tragedy struck in Ore, headquarters of Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Monday, as two teenage brothers drowned in a river known as Omileye during a late-night downpour.
The victims, both pupils of a private nursery and primary school in the area, were said to be returning home after visiting their father’s motorcycle repair shop when the incident occurred.
According to local sources, the children attempted to cross the river following heavy rainfall but were swept away by strong currents. Their prolonged absence raised alarm within the family, prompting a frantic search led by concerned residents.
“It was around Omileye that they went missing. The father became worried when they didn’t return and alerted neighbours,” a resident said.
A report was subsequently made at the Ore Divisional Police Station. Local swimmers and volunteers were mobilised, and after several hours of searching, the boys’ lifeless bodies were found trapped between debris along the riverbank.
Confirming the development, a source at the police station stated that detectives would be dispatched to investigate the incident, although it remained unclear whether the case had also been reported to other security agencies.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Command, Mr. Adeyinka Alayande, said no official report had been filed but assured that an investigation would be initiated immediately.
The incident has thrown the Ore community into mourning, with many residents expressing sadness over the loss and calling for improved safety measures around the river area, especially during the rainy season.