Lagos Police Bust Fake Kidnapping Syndicate, Arrest Five

Lagos State Police have arrested five suspects in connection with a staged kidnapping incident that went viral online, sparking widespread panic. The Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad apprehended the individuals on December 17 and 18 after uncovering that the alleged abduction of a schoolboy, Victor Aligwo, was entirely fabricated.

According to Lagos State Police spokesperson SP Adebisi, the case was first reported as a missing person at the Ago Palace Division on November 26, 2025. “Our preliminary investigation revealed that the kidnapping was deliberately orchestrated by the victim himself, in collaboration with four friends, using the room of one of the suspects, Umeh Victor, to stage the incident,” she said.

The suspects—Kosiko Patrick, 17; Victor Aligwo, 15; David Odudu, 19; Anyabike Kingsley, 20; and Umeh Victor, 19—allegedly plotted the fake kidnapping to extort money from Aligwo’s mother, who had recently received N4 million from contributions. To make the act appear real, the group recorded a video showing Aligwo pleading for help, which was circulated online. “They created fear and panic in the minds of the family to pressure them into paying a ransom,” Adebisi added.

A ransom of N1.7 million was reportedly paid and later transferred to one of the suspects’ accounts before being shared among the group. Police traced the transaction through a Point-of-Sale terminal, which led to the arrest of all five suspects. “Investigation is ongoing, and all suspects will be charged in a competent court for prosecution,” Adebisi confirmed.

Commissioner of Police CP Olohundare Jimoh warned criminal elements against any form of illegal activity. “The Lagos State Police Command remains resolute in ensuring the safety of lives and property. We will not relent in protecting residents from such schemes,” he said.

The police reassured residents that the incident was not a genuine kidnapping. SP Adebisi urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police through the emergency numbers: 0706 101 9374, 0806 515 4338, 0806 329 9264, or 0803 934 4870.