The Anambra State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with a staged kidnap incident and recovered over ₦1.2 million from the ransom paid.
The suspects, identified as 23-year-old Nmesoma Josephine Nwoye and 24-year-old Chibuike Ogbu, were apprehended by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, after intelligence revealed that Nmesoma conspired with her boyfriend, Ogbu, to fake her own abduction.
Police investigations showed that the suspects initially demanded ₦15 million as ransom. Following negotiations, the victim’s family paid ₦3 million, with ₦1.2 million later recovered by the operatives.
Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, expressed concern over what he described as a disturbing reflection of moral decay in society.
“This incident shows how some youths are resorting to criminality for selfish gains. Parents, guardians, and religious leaders must intensify efforts in instilling discipline, integrity, and sound values in young people,” CP Orutugu said.
He further warned that the Command would not relent in fishing out criminals, stressing that no matter how well disguised, criminal schemes will eventually be uncovered.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who signed the statement on Saturday, August 30th, 2025 assured that investigations are ongoing