The Edo State Police Command has apprehended two men for allegedly orchestrating a staged kidnapping to extort N4 million from the family of one of the suspects. The command's spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, an assistant superintendent of police, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Benin.
Suspects Identified as Lucky Alabi and Taiye Enahoro
Ms Ikoedem identified the suspects as Lucky Alabi, 48, and Taiye Enahoro, 37, both residents of Uneme Akpama Community in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo. She stated that operatives of the Igarra Police Division arrested the suspects on 26 June following intelligence-led investigations.
Plot Executed on 23 June
According to her, preliminary investigations revealed that the alleged criminal plot was executed on 23 June. She alleged that Mr Enahoro made several telephone calls to relatives of Mr Alabi, falsely claiming that Mr Alabi had been kidnapped and demanding a ransom of N4 million for his release.
“Acting on credible intelligence and through diligent investigative efforts, police operatives uncovered the deception and successfully arrested both suspects,” she said.
Suspects Confess to Self-Kidnap
Ms Ikoedem added that both suspects had confessed to their roles in the alleged self-kidnap. She said they would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
She quoted the Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, as warning members of the public against criminal deception, including staging kidnappings to extort money from unsuspecting relatives. “The Command reiterates its commitment to ensuring all persons involved in criminal acts are brought to justice,” the commissioner said.
Police Urge Public Vigilance
The police chief also urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies. The command continues to emphasize the importance of community cooperation in combating crime.
