The Police Command in Ondo State says it has arrested a self-kidnap suspect and two other accomplices for extorting money from unsuspecting family members in the state.
DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the command’s Spokesperson, who made this known on Thursday in Akure, said the development underscored the command’s unwavering commitment to uncovering criminal schemes, regardless of its careful concealment.
Ayanlade explained that a concerned citizen reported at the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad (SAKS) that suspected kidnappers had abducted one Tobi Oluwatuyi ‘m’, aged 22, a truck driver, from the Ilu-Abo Area of Akure.
“Acting promptly on the report, detectives from SAKS immediately commenced a meticulous investigation into the incident.
“As the inquiry progressed, preliminary findings revealed a startling twist: the supposed victim, Tobi Oluwatuyi, had deliberately staged his own kidnapping in conspiracy with Jubril Abu ‘m’, aged 20, and Segun Oluwatuyi ‘m’, aged 21.
“Their intention was to extort a ransom of N1.5 million which the victim’s unsuspecting family eventually paid, believing he had been genuinely abducted.
“Building on this discovery, further investigation confirmed that the entire incident was a calculated attempt by the trio to obtain money fraudulently,” he said.
The spokesperson said the suspects had confessed to their involvement in the crime, reinforcing the effectiveness of the command’s investigative approach.
Ayanlade said the suspects would be charged to court at the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.
According to him, the Commissioner of Police (CP) urges members of the public to promptly report incidents of magnitude and allow investigators to professionally handle such situations.
Ayanlade also said the CP cautioned against yielding to ransom demands in kidnap-related cases, because actions inadvertently encouraged criminal enterprises and undermined ongoing security efforts.
“He also warns against the rising trend of self-orchestrated kidnappings, stressing that such deceptive acts constitute serious offences and will always be uncovered through diligent investigation.
“The command reassures residents that Ondo State will not serve as a haven for criminals of any kind.
“The Police remain steadfast in safeguarding lives and properties, and the continued cooperation of the public will further strengthen collective security,” he said. (NAN)
