2 Suspects Detained over Fake Kidnap, as Police Rescue Victim, Recover N1.2m Ransom

By Praise Chinecherem

Anambra State Police Command has arrested two suspects over a staged kidnap incident.

Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Saturday said the suspects were arrested following intelligence-led operations by Police Operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu.

He said, “The suspects identified as Nmesoma Josephine Nwoye, female, aged 23 years, and Chibuike Ogbu, male, aged 24 years, were arrested after intelligence-led operations uncovered that the supposed victim conspired with Chibuike (her boyfriend) to stage her own abduction.

“The operatives also recovered the sum of ₦1. 5 Million being part of the ransom earlier paid by the girl’s family members.

“Further information reveals that the suspects demanded ₦15m ransom, and after negotiation, ₦3m was transferred into the victim’s account.”

Reacting to the development, Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu described the incident as a reflection of the rising moral decay in the society, where young people are increasingly resorting to criminality for selfish gains.

He urged parents, guardians, and religious leaders to intensify efforts in inculcating discipline, integrity, and sound values in their children and wards.

The CP also warned youths against engaging in self-destructive ventures, stressing that the long arm of the law will always catch up with criminals, no matter how cleverly disguised their schemes may be.