The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended five individuals linked to a fabricated kidnapping that gained attention online, featuring a schoolboy pleading for mercy in a staged “kidnappers’ den.”

The arrests occurred on Thursday, 18th December 2025, around 1:00 p.m., the Command confirmed in a statement signed by SP Abimbola Adebisi and shared via its official X handle on Friday.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the case, initially reported as a missing person incident at Ago Palace Division on 26th November 2025, was deliberately orchestrated by the alleged victim, 15-year-old Victor Aligwo, along with four associates. The fake kidnapping was staged at the residence of Victor’s friend, Umeh Victor.

The suspects—Kosiko Patrick (17), Victor Aligwo (15), David Odudu (19), Anyabike Kingsley (20), and Umeh Victor (19)—were arrested in intelligence-led operations on 17th and 18th December at Volkswagen Roundabout and Ago Palace areas.

Investigations further revealed that the staged abduction was meant to extort money from Victor Aligwo’s mother, who had recently received N4 million in contributions. The suspects filmed and circulated a distress video of Victor pleading for help to pressure the mother into paying a ransom. She reportedly paid N1.7 million via a POS terminal, which police later traced. The money was shared among the suspects prior to their arrest.

Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing and the five individuals are expected to face court charges.

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, warned criminal elements to desist from illegal activities and assured residents that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the Police emergency numbers: 0706 101 9374, 0806 515 4338, 0806 329 9264, 0803 934 4870.