The Ondo State Police Command has announced that it uncovered and prevented a fake kidnap plot allegedly masterminded by a family member who intended to extort money from relatives.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, revealed this on Tuesday in Akure, explaining that the discovery reflects the police’s proactive efforts to stop crime and protect residents from new forms of criminal schemes.
Ayanlade said the breakthrough occurred during a routine bush-combing patrol carried out by officers from the Ogbese Division alongside non-state security groups. The operation took place in the Kashimola/Agunla Forest area along a farm route in Akure North LGA.
During the patrol, the team — including members of the OPC, local hunters, vigilantes, and others — stopped a motorcycle transporting two men: John Peter, 30, and James Peter, both from Igbodudu Camp. A search of their possessions uncovered ₦800,000, a pack of cigarettes, and a bottle of Schnapps, prompting suspicion.
According to Ayanlade, the men claimed the money was intended as ransom for their younger brother, Mathew Ekele, 28, who they said had been kidnapped. Acting on this information, officers set up a trap for the supposed abductor. One person who arrived to pick up the ransom was caught immediately.
But further investigation revealed an unexpected twist — the supposed victim, Ekele, had staged his own kidnapping. He was later found hiding in a bush along Ogbese Road, waiting to collect the ransom himself. Police also recovered his motorcycle, which strengthened the evidence against him.
Ayanlade urged residents to be alert and promptly report any suspected kidnapping or criminal activity, warning that fake abductions aimed at extorting families are becoming more common.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
Earlier, on November 26, PUNCH Online reported that the Ondo Police had arrested a suspected kidnapper and rescued a couple abducted from their farm shelter in Itaogbolu, Akure North. The victims, Mr. David and his wife, were seized at their hut near the Ondo–Ekiti boundary at Odeigede Camp.
