By Dansu Peter The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a disturbing new trend of abduction which could be labeled "romantic kidna...
By Dansu Peter
This sophisticated scheme, described by the police as "constructive kidnapping," has ensnared 16 victims, all of whom have been successfully rescued by law enforcement. The details of this alarming tactic were disclosed by the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olawale Ishola, during a press briefing on the command’s recent breakthroughs spanning September 2024 to January 2025.
According to CP Ishola, the kidnappers initiate their plot by connecting with potential victims on social media, posing as wealthy and charming individuals. Once trust is established, the criminals entice their targets to visit Lagos under the guise of a romantic meeting.
To build credibility, the kidnappers send substantial amounts of money—up to ₦500,000—and cover travel expenses, including business-class flight tickets, to lure their victims. Upon arrival, the women are taken to luxurious hotels, where the kidnappers seize their phones and access their finances. They then contact the victims’ families, demanding hefty ransoms and threatening harm if their demands are not met.
"It’s a cunning operation," CP Ishola explained. "These individuals use the promise of romance and a lavish lifestyle to lure ladies from their safe spaces. The victims think they’ve found love, only to realize they’ve walked straight into a trap. We’ve rescued 16 women from this ordeal so far, and we’re committed to putting an end to this menace."
The police chief emphasized the importance of vigilance, particularly for women engaging with strangers online. He urged citizens to report suspicious activities promptly, stating, “If you see something, say something.”
The Lagos State Police Command has intensified efforts to dismantle this criminal network while warning the public to exercise caution in online interactions.
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