Police arrest two over self-kidnap plot in Edo

Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested two men suspected of orchestrating a fake kidnapping plot to extort a substantial ransom from a family. The suspects, identified as Lucky Alabi, 48, and Taiye Enahoro, 37, both from Uneme Akpama Community, were apprehended following intelligence-led investigations by the Igarra Division.

According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, the alleged scheme was executed on June 23. Taiye Enahoro reportedly made several phone calls to the relatives of Lucky Alabi, falsely claiming that Alabi had been kidnapped and demanding a ransom of ₦4 million for his release.

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The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that on 26th June, 2026, at about 1030hrs, operatives of Igarra Division arrested two suspects, Lucky Alabi ‘M’, 48 years, and Taiye Enahoro ‘M’, 37 years, both of Uneme Akpama Community, for conspiring to stage the fake kidnapping of Lucky Alabi.

Preliminary investigations revealed the deception, leading to the successful arrest of both suspects. The police command confirmed that both men have confessed to their roles in the staged kidnapping. They are expected to be charged to court once the investigation is concluded.

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Acting on credible intelligence and through diligent investigative efforts, police operatives uncovered the deception and successfully arrested both suspects as preliminary investigation reveals that the criminal plan was executed on 23rd June, 2026, when Taiye Enahoro allegedly placed several telephone calls to relatives of Lucky Alabi, falsely claiming that Alabi had been kidnapped and demanding the sum of Four Million Naira (₦4,000,000) as ransom for his release.

Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, issued a stern warning to the public against engaging in criminal deceptions, particularly staging kidnappings to defraud unsuspecting relatives. He reiterated the command's commitment to ensuring that all individuals involved in criminal activities are brought to justice.

The police urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious activities. The arrests highlight the police's efforts to combat fraudulent schemes and maintain public safety within the state.

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The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, warns members of the public against engaging in any form of criminal deception, including staging kidnappings to extort money from unsuspecting relatives.