The Ondo State Police Command has made a startling arrest, detaining a man who allegedly orchestrated his own kidnapping to fraudulently obtain ransom money from his unsuspecting family members. This incident, which police say is part of a concerning trend, was uncovered through a coordinated operation involving local security groups.
How the Staged Kidnapping Plot Unravelled
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, on Tuesday, December 2, the breakthrough came during a routine patrol. Operatives from the Ogbese Division, working with the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), local hunters, and vigilantes, intercepted two suspects in the Kashimola/Agunla Forest area.
The men were found in possession of items that immediately raised red flags for the security team: N800,000 in cash, a roll of Benson cigarettes, and a bottle of Aromatic Schnapps. Upon interrogation, the duo claimed the money was a ransom intended to secure the release of their younger brother, whom they said had been kidnapped.
The Sting Operation and a Surprising Twist
Acting swiftly on this information, the police set up a sting operation to catch the supposed kidnappers. During the operation, the team intercepted a motorcycle carrying John Peter, 30, and James Peter, both from Igbodudu Camp via Daada Ala.
Subsequently, an individual arrived at the pre-arranged location to collect the ransom and was promptly arrested. However, a deeper investigation revealed a shocking development. The alleged kidnap victim, identified as Mathew Ekele, had masterminded the entire scheme himself.
Ayanlade explained that officers later tracked down and arrested Ekele in a nearby bush along Ogbese Road, where he was waiting to collect the ransom after pretending to be a hostage. His motorcycle was recovered as evidence.
Police Commitment and Public Vigilance
The police spokesperson commended the success of the operation, attributing it to intelligence-led policing strategies championed by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun. He stated that the IGP's support continues to enhance police effectiveness across Nigeria.
The command has used this case to warn the public about the rise in "fraudulent and staged criminal activities" and urged residents to remain vigilant. "Timely information is crucial in preventing criminals from deceiving families through staged kidnappings," Ayanlade emphasized.
Reiterating its dedication to public safety, the Ondo State Police Command assured citizens that all forms of criminality will be confronted decisively throughout the state.
