“Lagos Police Unveil ‘Constructive Kidnapping’ Trend, Rescue 16 Ladies”

poliThe Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a dangerous new trend of kidnapping, known as ‘Constructive Kidnapping,’ where unsuspecting women are lured by kidnappers posing as online friends or romantic partners. This devious scheme has already entangled 16 women from various parts of the state, though they were fortunate to be rescued by the police.

During a press briefing on the command’s recent operations, Commissioner of Police (CP) Olawale Ishola detailed the criminal activities and how the police broke the case between September 2024 and January 2025. The kidnappers’ methods are as cunning as they are ruthless.

According to CP Ishola, the kidnappers typically begin by establishing online contact with their victims, posing as friendly acquaintances or lovers. Once a rapport is built and the victim’s trust is gained, they are invited to Lagos under the pretense of a romantic or personal meeting. The perpetrators sweeten the deal by sending substantial sums of money—up to N500,000—and covering the costs of flights to Lagos.

Upon arrival, the victims are taken to luxurious five-star hotels, where their phones are seized, and funds are transferred out of their bank accounts. The kidnappers then contact the victims’ relatives, demanding a ransom for their release, threatening harm or death if the family refuses to comply.

“This is what we call ‘Constructive Kidnapping,’” said CP Ishola. “The victims are lured from their comfort zone with promises of money, luxury, and romance. They feel they’ve ‘arrived,’ but they are actually walking right into a trap. Once there, the kidnappers steal their money, seize their phones, and force their relatives to pay ransom.”

The police have rescued at least 16 women from this disturbing scheme. CP Ishola emphasized that while the criminals think they are one step ahead, the police are always vigilant, staying ahead of the game. He warned members of the public, especially young women, to be cautious when interacting with strangers online, advising people to report suspicious activities they may come across.

In another shocking incident, CP Ishola recounted the case of a 15-year-old girl, Anuoluwapo Victoria, who was reported missing by her mother. On January 8, 2025, her mother filed a report after receiving a ransom demand, and the police discovered that the girl had conspired with her boyfriend to fake her abduction and extort money from her parents. The authorities tracked down the pair and found the girl living with her boyfriend and a baby. They were apprehended, and the case is now under investigation.

“On January 9, we received a ransom demand, and money was being sent to an account before we were able to locate and apprehend the girl and her boyfriend,” said CP Ishola. “This was a clear case of extortion and deceit, and both individuals have been arrested.”

The police continue to urge the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior, particularly regarding online interactions that may have dangerous consequences.