‘Constructive Kidnapping’: Police Expose New Abduction Trend by Criminals, Rescue 16 Women

The Lagos State Police Command has exposed a disturbing new trend of abductions termed “Constructive Kidnapping,” in which unsuspecting women are lured to Lagos by criminals posing as online friends or romantic interests. Sixteen women who fell victim to this scheme have been successfully rescued by the police.

The scheme involves kidnappers befriending their targets on social media, gaining their trust, and inviting them to Lagos under the guise of a romantic or business meeting. To make the invitation irresistible, the kidnappers offer enticing incentives such as business-class flight tickets, five-star hotel bookings, and cash amounts as high as N500,000.

However, upon arrival, the victims are taken to luxury hotels, where their phones are confiscated, their funds stolen, and their families contacted with ransom demands. The kidnappers often threaten harm to the victims if their demands are not met.

Speaking to journalists, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olawale Ishola, highlighted the calculated nature of the crime. “It is called ‘Constructive Kidnapping’ because the victims willingly leave their safe spaces, lured by a false promise of luxury or opportunity. Once they arrive, they are trapped and subjected to extortion. Thankfully, we’ve rescued 16 women from this ordeal. We urge the public, particularly young women, to exercise caution when interacting with strangers online.”

In a separate case, the police rescued a 15-year-old girl who had staged her own kidnapping in collaboration with her boyfriend. The girl, identified as Anuoluwapo Victoria, left home on January 8, 2025. Her mother later received a ransom demand, with payments requested via a bank account.

Investigations led the police to the boyfriend’s residence, where the girl was found along with a baby. CP Ishola explained, “The mother had already sent money before the police apprehended the girl and her boyfriend. This highlights the need for vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.”

The Lagos State Police Command continues to urge the public to be wary of online interactions and report any suspicious behavior to the authorities.