Police in Edo State have arrested two suspects over an alleged fake kidnapping scheme used to demand N4 million ransom from relatives

Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested two men, Lucky Alabi and Taiye Enahoro, over an alleged staged kidnapping plot aimed at extorting ₦4 million from family members in Uneme Akpama Community, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, on 26 June 2026.

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According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the suspects were apprehended following intelligence-led investigations conducted by officers of the Igarra Police Division, which uncovered what authorities described as a carefully coordinated deception.

Investigators said the alleged plot was executed on 23 June 2026, when one of the suspects, Enahoro, reportedly contacted relatives of Alabi, falsely claiming that Alabi had been abducted and demanding a ransom for his release.

“Acting on credible intelligence and through diligent investigative efforts, police operatives uncovered the deception and successfully arrested both suspects,” Ikoedem said.

Police authorities alleged that both men were involved in staging the incident, with preliminary findings indicating that the supposed kidnapping was fabricated to pressure relatives into paying the ransom demand.

The suspects have reportedly confessed to their roles in the scheme and are expected to be charged to court upon the completion of investigations.

Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, condemned the act, warning residents against engaging in criminal deception, including the staging of kidnappings for financial gain.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, reaffirming the command’s commitment to ensuring that all individuals involved in criminal conduct are brought to justice.

The police said the case reflects a growing concern over emerging forms of kidnapping-related fraud, where individuals exploit fear and insecurity to extort money from unsuspecting families.

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Authorities continue to intensify efforts to curb both genuine kidnapping incidents and related scams across communities in Edo State.