The Lagos State Police Command has raised alarm over a new form of abduction, which it termed ‘constructive kidnapping,’ where unsuspecting women are lured to Lagos under false pretenses by kidnappers posing as romantic partners or online friends.
Speaking at a press briefing, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olawale Ishola, revealed that at least 16 women had fallen victim to the scheme but were successfully rescued by the police.
Explaining the modus operandi, CP Ishola said, “It is ‘constructive kidnapping’ because you have a scenario where a lady is lured from her safe space to Lagos by a group of boys or a single individual. They make it enticing by sending a business-class flight ticket, ₦500,000, and booking a luxurious five-star hotel. The victim feels like they’ve ‘arrived,’ unaware that it’s all a ruse.”
Upon arrival, the victims’ phones are confiscated, their bank accounts emptied, and their families contacted with ransom demands.
“The kidnappers mess the ladies up, seize their phones, transfer their money, and contact their relatives to demand more ransom, threatening to kill the victim if their demands aren’t met. However, we’re always one step ahead,” CP Ishola explained.
CP Ishola urged members of the public, particularly women, to exercise caution when engaging with strangers online.
“Always be vigilant. If you see something suspicious, say something,” he warned.
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