Nigeria police thwart kidnap attempt in Anambra, arrest suspect

Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have arrested one 32-year-old Chukwuma Obi from Umuagu Village, Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of the state in connection with an alleged case of attempted kidnapping and extortion.

A statement by the Command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said operatives of the Anti-Cultism Squad, Enugu-Ukwu made the arrest on Tuesday.

The suspect is accused of demanding a ransom of N1.2 million through threats of abduction.

“The victim reported receiving a menacing message from an individual claiming to be a member of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, threatening abduction unless the demanded ransom was paid into a specified account.

“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and is currently assisting the Police in identifying and apprehending other members of the gang involved in the criminal activities,” the statement said.

The statement further said that the arrest followed a similar case late last month, where the Command apprehended a couple specializing in sending threatening messages and extorting victims under the guise of planned abductions.

The couple confessed to their crimes and admitted to destroying SIM cards used in their illicit activities, the police said.

The State Police Commissioner, Nnaghe Obono Itam, reiterated the Command’s commitment to pursuing all cases to a conclusive end to ensure that suspects are apprehended, and justice is served.

He stressed that such efforts were pivotal in preventing further criminal activities and ensuring the safety and security of residents.

Nigeria police thwart kidnap attempt in Anambra, arrest suspect