Four young men have been arrested by the Cross River State Police Command in connection with an alleged kidnapping plot that began with an online friendship and ended in a ₦7 million ransom demand.
The arrests, which took place in Yahe community, Yala Local Government Area, have rattled residents and highlighted growing concerns over internet-facilitated crimes.
A situation report issued by the Yala Divisional Police Headquarters on February 7, 2026, revealed that the Officer-in-Charge of Yahe Police Post, Supol Umar Kabiru, reported the incident at approximately 6:00 p.m. that day.
According to the report, local vigilante members apprehended four suspects in the early hours of February 6, 2026—around 4:00 a.m.—and handed them over to police.
The suspects have been named as Adedeji Goodluck, 21; Sylvester Akpa, 20; Chinonso Nwibo Emmanuel, 25; and Richard Innocent, 22. All four reportedly have no fixed address.
How the Plot Unfolded
Investigators believe the scheme began in August 2025, when Chinonso Emmanuel and Adedeji Goodluck allegedly connected online and stayed in touch over the following months.
On February 5, 2026, Emmanuel allegedly invited Goodluck to travel from Abuja to Yahe, reportedly sending him money for transport.
When Goodluck arrived, he was taken to the home of Sylvester Akpa, where Richard Innocent later joined them. Police claim a meeting was held before the group allegedly kidnapped Goodluck.
The suspects then allegedly contacted Goodluck’s parents in Abuja and demanded ₦7 million for his release, threatening to harm him if the ransom was not paid.
The plot was thwarted after a concerned citizen tipped off the local vigilante group, who acted swiftly to rescue the victim and apprehend the suspects.
Police Response
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata, confirmed that all four suspects are in custody. He said Goodluck has been rescued without injury and placed under protective care.
Akata added that investigations are ongoing, with more details expected as the case progresses.
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