Police foil kidnap attempt in Anambra, arrest suspect

The Anambra State Police Command has said its operatives foiled a kidnap attempt and arrested a suspect, Chukwuma Obi, 32, for allegedly demanding a ransom of N1.2 million through abduction threats.

In a press statement on Wednesday, the command’s spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the suspect, who hails from Umuagu Village in Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of the state, was arrested in connection with an alleged case of attempted kidnapping and extortion.

The statement read, “The Anambra State Police Command has arrested Chukwuma Obi, a 32-year-old male from Umuagu Village, Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area, in connection with an alleged case of attempted kidnapping and extortion.

“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, threatening abduction unless the 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.”

On November 29, 2024, the command confirmed the arrest of a couple, Kingsley Okoye, 36, and Chidinma Okoye, 27, for allegedly sending threatening messages and attempting to kidnap unsuspecting individuals.

The command disclosed that the duo specialised in issuing abduction threats through text messages, demanding ransom with the ultimatum of abduction or murder.

Ikenga noted that the state Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, reiterated the command’s commitment to pursuing all cases to a conclusive end to ensure that suspects are apprehended and justice is served.

“The CP emphasised that such efforts are vital in preventing further criminal activities and ensuring the safety and security of residents.

“The Anambra State Police Command continues to urge the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through its emergency lines,” he added.