Woman Arrested for Staging Own Kidnap, Recovers N1.2 Million Ransom

Awkuzu, Anambra — Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have apprehended 23-year-old Nmesoma Josephine Nwoye and her 24-year-old boyfriend, Chibuike Ogbu, for orchestrating a fake kidnapping to extort ransom from her parents.

Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that the couple was arrested after an intelligence-led operation by the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu, Oyi local government area.

Investigations revealed that the suspects initially demanded a ransom of ₦15 million from Nmesoma’s family but accepted ₦3 million after negotiation, with part of the ransom amounting to ₦1.2 million recovered.

Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as indicative of increasing moral decay where youths resort to criminal activities for selfish gain.

The CP urged parents, guardians, and religious leaders to enhance efforts in instilling discipline, integrity, and sound values among young people.

He further warned youths against participating in self-destructive behaviors, emphasizing that the long arm of the law will catch up with criminals regardless of how cleverly their schemes are disguised.

By Taiwo Olatinwo | August 30, 2025