The Lagos State Police Command has exposed a disturbing new trend of abduction, labeled "Constructive Kidnapping," where unsuspecting women are tricked by individuals posing as online friends or romantic interests. This elaborate scam has already ensnared 16 women across the state, all of whom were rescued by the police.
In another shocking twist, a 15-year-old girl was found after allegedly colluding with her boyfriend to stage a fake kidnapping and demand ransom from her parents.
According to Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olawale Ishola, who briefed journalists over the weekend on the command’s achievements between September 2024 and January 2025, the “Constructive Kidnapping” scheme is as deceptive as it is calculated.
The perpetrators initiate contact with their victims on social media, posing as friends or potential romantic partners. After gaining their trust, the criminals lure the victims to Lagos, promising luxury and love. To make their bait more convincing, the kidnappers send significant sums of money—sometimes up to ₦500,000—and pay for the victim’s business-class flight and accommodations at five-star hotels.
However, upon arrival, the victims are trapped. Their phones are confiscated, and their money is transferred out. The kidnappers then contact the victims' families, demanding ransom and issuing threats of harm if their demands are not met.
Describing the scheme, CP Ishola explained, “This is termed ‘Constructive Kidnapping’ because the victims unknowingly walk into a trap. They are lured from their safe spaces to Lagos with offers of money, luxury, and false affection. Upon arrival, they are deceived, robbed, and used to extort their families. So far, we have rescued 16 ladies from this scam, and we remain vigilant to stay ahead of these criminals.”
He urged the public, especially young women, to be cautious when engaging with strangers online. “Always report suspicious activity,” he advised. “If you see something, say something.”
In a related case, CP Ishola revealed details about a 15-year-old girl who allegedly staged her own kidnapping. The girl, identified as Anuoluwapo Victoria, left home on January 8, 2025, and was later reported missing by her mother. The next day, the family received a ransom demand along with a bank account to transfer funds for her release.
The police traced Anuoluwapo to her boyfriend’s residence, where she was found with a baby. CP Ishola noted, “Her parents had already sent money to the provided account multiple times before we apprehended her and her boyfriend.”
The Lagos Police Command continues to warn citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to prevent falling victim to such schemes.
