Police nab IMSU student for fake kidnapping, death prank

The Imo State Police Command has apprehended a 17-year-old student of Imo State University (IMSU), identified as Jesse Chidiebere, who reportedly staged her own kidnapping and death as a prank.

In a press release, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Henry Okoye, stated that officers from the Orji Police Division arrested Chidiebere on October 26, 2024, at 10 p.m., following a distress call from concerned citizens reporting her missing. The incident triggered public alarm, putting both her family and the university community on edge.

According to the statement, a message from Chidiebere’s WhatsApp account falsely claimed she had been kidnapped and killed, advising her family to go to the Orji Police Station for confirmation.

Upon investigating, police operatives located Chidiebere alive the next morning, October 27, 2024, and confirmed she had fabricated the story as a social media prank. An ongoing investigation aims to understand her motives, with authorities indicating she will face legal action.

Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, condemned the act as reckless, wasting resources and inciting public fear. He urged parents to warn their children against dangerous pranks and misinformation, emphasizing the command’s commitment to maintaining a safe and informed community in the state.