How kidnappers murdered woman after collecting $98,700, N30.5m ransoms - Police

Enugu, Nigeria – Authorities in Enugu State have apprehended 12 individuals suspected of involvement in a kidnapping ring that allegedly collected millions in ransom before murdering a female victim. The Commissioner of Police for Enugu State, Bitrus Giwa, announced the arrests during a press briefing Friday, detailing the suspects' alleged criminal activities.

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The suspects were arrested through “human and technical intelligence-led operations conducted in different parts of the country.”

Giwa stated that the suspects were arrested through "human and technical intelligence-led operations" conducted across various parts of the country. The arrests occurred on different dates in June, July, and August 2026. Preliminary investigations suggest the group is an organized criminal network that convenes in Enugu State to plan and execute kidnappings before dispersing to their home states.

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Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspects are members of an organised criminal network operating from different parts of the country.

The police commissioner detailed several incidents, including the abduction of seven victims in April for which N25 million was paid, and another kidnapping in May where N5.5 million was collected. In a particularly grim case, the suspects allegedly kidnapped two men in May, received $28,700, and subsequently killed a woman. They also reportedly abducted two more men in April before collecting a $70,000 ransom.

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They converge in Enugu State to plan and execute kidnapping operations before returning to their respective locations.

Further investigations indicate the network uses members based in Enugu for logistical support, including transportation via tricycle and intelligence gathering to evade security. The suspects are also accused of laundering their illicit proceeds through investments in livestock, properties, and lavish spending, including overseas trips. The police chief did not disclose the identities of the arrested individuals.

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The network is aided by an Enugu-based member who operates a tricycle and provides transportation for the gang members, their firearms and other criminal implements to and from operational locations.