The Edo State Police Command has arrested two men for allegedly staging a fake kidnapping in a bid to extort ₦4 million from the family of one of the suspects.
The suspects, identified as Lucky Alabi, 48, and Taiye Enahoro, 37, both from Uneme Akpama Community in Edo State, were arrested by operatives of the Igarra Police Division following intelligence-led investigations.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, said the suspects were apprehended after detectives uncovered what the command described as a carefully planned kidnapping hoax.
According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the scheme was carried out on June 23, 2026, when Enahoro allegedly telephoned Alabi’s relatives, falsely claiming that Alabi had been kidnapped and demanding a ransom of ₦4 million for his release.
“The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that on June 26, 2026, at about 10:30 a.m., operatives of Igarra Division arrested two suspects, Lucky Alabi, 48, and Taiye Enahoro, 37, both of Uneme Akpama Community, for conspiring to stage the fake kidnapping of Lucky Alabi,” the statement read.
The command said intelligence gathering and diligent investigation exposed the alleged plot before the suspects were taken into custody.
Police further disclosed that both men have allegedly admitted their involvement in the staged kidnapping.
“The suspects have confessed to their respective roles in the staged kidnapping and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations,” the statement added.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, warned residents against engaging in fraudulent schemes, particularly fake kidnapping plots designed to extort money from unsuspecting family members.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to ensuring that individuals involved in criminal activities are identified, investigated and prosecuted.
The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious activities within their communities.
