The Edo State Police Command has arrested two men for allegedly staging a fake kidnapping to extort ₦4 million from family members.
According to Daily Post, the suspects are Lucky Alabi, 48, and Taiye Enahoro, 37. Both men are from Uneme Akpama Community in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.
The police said the suspects planned the scheme to convince Alabi’s relatives that kidnappers had abducted him. They allegedly hoped to collect a ransom before anyone discovered the truth.
The command disclosed that officers attached to the Igarra Division received credible intelligence about the incident. As a result, they began an investigation without delay.
Investigators traced the alleged plot to June 23. Police said Enahoro repeatedly contacted Alabi’s relatives by telephone. During the calls, he allegedly claimed that kidnappers were holding Alabi. He also demanded a ₦4 million ransom for his release.
However, detectives continued to verify the claims. Their findings later showed that no kidnapping had taken place. Instead, the investigation revealed an alleged plan to deceive family members into paying money.
The intelligence operation later led officers to both suspects. Consequently, police arrested Alabi and Enahoro on June 26.
During questioning, the suspects reportedly admitted their roles in the alleged crime. The police said investigators recorded their statements as part of the ongoing case.
According to Daily Post, the Edo State Police Command confirmed that both men would face prosecution after investigators conclude their work. The command also stressed that the law would take its course.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, condemned the alleged act. He warned residents against staging kidnappings or using deception to collect money from relatives.
The commissioner described such actions as serious criminal offences. He added that the command would not tolerate anyone who attempts to profit through fraud or false kidnapping claims.
In addition, Agbonika assured residents that officers would continue to strengthen intelligence gathering across the state. He said the command remains committed to protecting lives and property.
He also urged residents to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station. According to him, timely information often helps security agencies stop crimes before they become more serious.
Furthermore, the police encouraged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement officers during investigations. They noted that public support remains vital in the fight against crime.
The Edo police nab two over fake kidnap case highlights the growing concern over staged abductions. In recent years, security agencies have uncovered similar plots designed to obtain money through false ransom demands.
Therefore, police advised families to notify security agencies immediately whenever they receive kidnapping threats. Early investigations can help determine whether such claims are genuine or fabricated.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to tackling criminal activities across Edo State. It also promised to prosecute anyone found involved in similar offences.
The Edo police nab two over fake kidnap incident remains under investigation. However, the suspects are expected to appear in court after the police complete the necessary procedures.
According to Daily Post, the command believes stronger cooperation between residents and security agencies will help reduce crimes such as fake kidnappings, fraud and extortion.
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The Edo police nab two over fake kidnap case serves as another reminder that anyone who attempts to exploit relatives through deception will face the law.
