Abia State police command has arrested a man, identified as John, for faking his own kidnap and demanding three million naira from his relatives as ransom.
John, hailing from Amachara in Umuahia South LGA of Abia State, reportedly sought refuge at Wisdom Guest House where he was negotiating his ransom payment with his relatives.
However, the Police Surveillance and Intelligence strategy led to his apprehension.
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Abia State Police Command, ASP Maureen Chinaka, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, it was noted that the individual behind the fake kidnapping scheme had initially demanded three million naira but later reduced it to two million naira before being arrested.
“On the 13th of November 2023, reports got to the police by family members that One John Male of Amachara Umuahiah was allegedly kidnapped by unknown assailants as he went to withdraw money along Bank Road in Umuahia.
“Responding swiftly to the report, the Abia State Police took immediate action. Utilizing surveillance intelligence, the police traced the purported kidnapping to Umuahia.
“Reaching the specified location, the police discovered Mr John at Wisdom Guest House. Examination revealed no evidence of external involvement in the alleged kidnapping.
“Mr. John confessed to orchestrating his kidnap and demanded a ransom of 3 million naira, which after negotiation reduced to 2 million naira from his family, as a desperate measure to raise funds to clear substantial debts. The matter is under discreet investigation,” she said.