Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a disturbing new trend in kidnapping, termed “Constructive Kidnapping,” where unsuspecting women are lured by kidnappers masquerading as online friends or lovers.
This chilling ploy has already ensnared 16 women, all of whom were fortunate to be rescued by the police, according to a statement from Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olawale Ishola. The breakthrough was achieved during operations spanning September 2024 to January 2025.
Explaining the kidnappers’ tactics, CP Ishola revealed their modus operandi begins with connecting with potential victims via social media platforms. By sending friend requests and fostering a sense of trust, the criminals groom their victims, presenting themselves as romantic or business prospects.
The kidnappers escalate their ploy by sending large sums of money—up to ₦500,000—along with business-class flight tickets, enticing their victims to travel to Lagos. Upon arrival, the women are taken to luxury hotels, where their belongings, including phones and financial assets, are confiscated.
The kidnappers then contact the victims’ families, demanding ransoms under threat of harm. CP Ishola elaborated:
“These victims are unwittingly lured from their safe spaces into a trap disguised as an opportunity. They are treated lavishly upon arrival but are soon subjected to terrifying extortion schemes.”
In a related case, the command also exposed an incident involving a 15-year-old girl who faked her kidnapping in collaboration with her boyfriend to extort money from her parents. The girl’s mother, Anuoluwapo Victoria, reported her missing on January 8, 2025, and began receiving ransom demands the following day.
After paying several installments, police traced the girl to her boyfriend’s residence, where she was found with a baby. The case highlights how such criminal schemes can evolve in unpredictable and alarming ways.
The Commissioner urged the public, particularly women, to exercise caution when interacting with strangers online. He also called for increased vigilance, urging anyone who notices suspicious behavior to report it promptly.
“If you see something, say something. Let’s work together to ensure these criminals don’t succeed in their nefarious acts.”
In a broader context, CP Ishola detailed additional breakthroughs in combating crime across Lagos State, including the dismantling of gangs targeting Uber drivers and addressing other forms of insecurity.
The Lagos Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to staying ahead of criminal elements, ensuring the safety and security of residents across the state.
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