- New kidnapping trend: The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a new trend of kidnapping, dubbed “Constructive Kidnapping”.
- Modus operandi: Kidnappers pose as internet friends and lovers, luring unsuspecting ladies to Lagos.
- 16 ladies rescued: The police command has rescued 16 ladies from this trap.
- Warning to the public: The police warned members of the public, especially ladies, to be cautious when interacting with strangers online.
The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a new trend of kidnapping, dubbed “Constructive Kidnapping,” where unsuspecting ladies are lured by kidnappers posing as internet friends and lovers. This sinister scheme has already ensnared 16 ladies from various parts of the state, who were fortunate to be rescued by the police command.
The kidnappers’ modus operandi involves tagging their potential victims as friends on social media platforms, establishing a false sense of acquaintance. Once the victim’s guard is lowered, the kidnappers invite them to Lagos, often under the guise of a romantic rendezvous. They send substantial amounts of money, up to N500,000, to their victims, as well as cover their flight expenses to Lagos.
Upon arrival, the unsuspecting victims are taken to five-star hotels, where their phones are seized, and money transferred out. The kidnappers then contact the victim’s relatives, demanding ransom and threatening to harm them if their demands are not met.
Commissioner of Police Lagos State Police Command, CP Olawale Ishola, warned members of the public, especially ladies, to be cautious when interacting with strangers online. He advised people to report any suspicious activities, saying “say something when you see something.”
In another shocking case, a 15-year-old girl was rescued after allegedly conspiring with her boyfriend to demand ransom from her parents, pretending that she had been kidnapped. The girl was found with a baby at her boyfriend’s residence.
