From Our Correspondent – Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command attached to the Anti-Kidnapping Sub-Unit of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on April 11, 2026, successfully rescued a kidnapped male victim who had been lured online, abducted, and compelled to pay a ransom of five hundred thousand naira (₦500,000.00). During the operation, a 27-year-old male suspect, Aniagboso Ugochukwu, identified as a member of the criminal syndicate, was arrested.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the same syndicate had, on April 1, 2026, lured and kidnapped another male victim, from whom they extorted a ransom of one hundred thousand naira (₦100,000.00) before releasing him.
Furthermore investigations indicate that the suspect and his accomplices on the run, employ deceptive tactics on social media platforms by advertising fictitious job vacancies. Unsuspecting victims who indicate interest are directed to a meeting point at Eke Obinagu, Emene, Enugu. They are subsequently transported to a secluded location in Akpuoga Nike, Enugu, where they are held captive and threatened with crude weapons, including iron objects and wooden planks, while ransom is demanded from their families.
The suspect confessed to the crime. He is currently in police custody and assisting ongoing investigations aimed at apprehending his fleeing accomplices, recovering the ransoms paid, and dismantling the criminal network.
The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has urged members of the public to exercise due caution when engaging with online job offers and to verify the authenticity of such opportunities before taking further steps. He also encouraged citizens to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or contact the Command through the following emergency lines: 08032003702, 08086671202, 112, 09134666668, or 09134448093.
Spokesman for the Command SP Daniel Ndukwe confirmed the story.
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