LAGOS POLICE BUST FAKE KIDNAPPING SYNDICATE, ARREST FIVE SUSPECTS OVER STAGED RANSOM SCAM
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered and dismantled a fake kidnapping syndicate, arresting five suspects over a staged abduction that sparked public outrage after a distress video of a schoolboy pleading for mercy went viral.
The suspects were arrested by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad on December 17 and 18, 2025, following intelligence-led investigations into what was initially reported as a missing person case at the Ago Palace Police Division on November 26, 2025.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the alleged kidnapping was deliberately orchestrated by the supposed victim, 15-year-old Victor Aligwo, in collaboration with four of his friends. The fake abduction was reportedly carried out in the room of one of the suspects, Umeh Victor, and filmed to create the impression of a real kidnappers’ den.
Those arrested were identified as Kosiko Patrick, 17; Victor Aligwo, 15; David Odudu, 19; Anyabike Kingsley, 20; and Umeh Victor, 19.
According to the police, the suspects conspired to stage the kidnapping in order to extort money from the mother of Victor Aligwo, who had recently received ₦4 million from a financial contribution. To make the plot convincing, the suspects recorded and circulated a distress video of the schoolboy pleading for help, triggering fear and panic within his family.
A ransom of ₦1.7 million was subsequently paid by the victim’s mother and transferred through a Point-of-Sale (POS) terminal to one of the suspects. The money was later shared among the group.
Police operatives were able to track the POS terminal used for the transaction, leading to the arrest of all those involved. The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue, and they will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, warned criminal elements to desist from engaging in any form of crime, assuring residents that the command remains resolute in ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state.
The police also clarified that the incident was not a case of kidnapping and urged the public not to panic. Residents were encouraged to continue their lawful activities and promptly report suspicious activities through the command’s emergency lines.
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