- The operatives also rescued two female victims, aged 15 and 19, from the gang
Police in Anambra State have arrested a 19-year-old, Ifechukwu Ibesimako, for allegedly kidnapping female victims through fake friendship proposals on social media.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga stated that Mr Ibesimako, described as a notorious kidnapper, was apprehended on Wednesday along with three accomplices by operatives from the Divisional Police Headquarters in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.
The operatives also rescued two female victims, aged 15 and 19, from the gang, who reportedly demanded and collected a ransom of ₦200,000 for their release.
According to Mr Ikenga, the suspects lured victims by proposing friendship online, holding them hostage until their families paid a ransom. Further investigations revealed that other victims had previously paid ransoms to the gang.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnaghe Obono, has directed the transfer of the suspects to the Anti-Kidnapping and Robbery Squad for a thorough investigation. He also urged youths to exercise caution when engaging with people on social media.