Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a man for allegedly faking his own kidnapping in a calculated attempt to extort money from his family, highlighting a disturbing trend of fraudulent schemes that exploit fear and panic in communities. The incident has left family members traumatized and underscores the growing need for vigilance and public awareness in the state.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), the suspect allegedly concocted the kidnapping to pressure relatives into paying a ransom. “This is a serious criminal act,” the PPRO explained. “Faking a kidnapping not only instills unnecessary fear in families but also diverts critical police resources from addressing real emergencies. The suspect has been arrested and will be prosecuted under the relevant provisions of the criminal code.”
The arrest followed an investigation triggered by a tip-off from concerned relatives who grew suspicious of the circumstances surrounding the supposed abduction. Police discovered inconsistencies in the suspect’s story, and further inquiry revealed that no third party was involved, confirming that the kidnapping was entirely staged.
Speaking on the case, the PPRO added, “We are urging families to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. It is crucial that community members cooperate with law enforcement to prevent such acts from escalating. Attempting to extort money through deception or fear carries severe consequences, including criminal prosecution.”
Police sources revealed that during questioning, the suspect admitted to planning the fake abduction. “I only wanted my family to give me money; I never intended for it to escalate like this,” he reportedly confessed. The admission not only confirms the fraudulent nature of the act but also highlights the lengths to which individuals may go to exploit the trust and fear of their loved ones.
Experts say that such fake kidnapping schemes, while sometimes dismissed as “pranks,” can have far-reaching consequences. “These actions traumatize families and can strain community trust,” said a local security analyst. “They also waste vital police resources that could be deployed to genuine emergencies, putting public safety at risk.”
The Ondo State Police Command has assured the public that further investigation is ongoing to determine whether others were involved in planning the scheme and to ensure that any accomplices face legal action. Residents have been strongly advised to verify information before acting on it and to alert the authorities immediately if they suspect any suspicious activity.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by fraudulent schemes that prey on emotions and fear. Authorities continue to call for public cooperation, vigilance, and prompt reporting to prevent such incidents from recurring in communities across Ondo State.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments