Couple arrested in Lagos over fake kidnap, N10m extortion from family

A husband and wife in Lagos have been arrested by the police for allegedly staging a fake kidnapping to extort ₦10 million from their families and friends.

The suspects, identified as Fred and Goodness, were reportedly arrested after security operatives uncovered their plan to raise money for the husband’s planned return to the United States.

According to police sources, the couple allegedly executed the scheme on January 7 after financial support they had expected failed to come through.

Investigators revealed that the suspects contacted relatives and close associates, claiming they had been kidnapped and demanding ransom for their release.

Convinced by the story, the families reportedly raised ₦10 million within three days.

A source involved in the investigation explained that the entire kidnapping narrative was carefully arranged by the couple as a way to secure travel funds.

“The so-called kidnapping was deliberately planned by the couple. The husband wanted to travel back to the U.S. but lacked funds. When expected support did not come, they jointly decided to stage the abduction to raise money,” the source said.

Further findings showed that the couple had agreed on a school in Cappa, Mushin, as the drop-off point for the ransom.

Security operatives monitoring the area reportedly became suspicious when the woman arrived alone and the man appeared separately shortly after.

“Their movements raised red flags. Both later came out together carrying a bag. When operatives stopped and searched them, the ransom money was found inside, leading to their immediate arrest,” another police source said.

During interrogation, the woman allegedly admitted her role in the plot, while investigations confirmed that no kidnapping had actually occurred.

Confirming the incident, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Addebisi, said the suspects would be charged to court after investigations are completed.