The Delta State Police Command has arrested a teenager, Princess Okolie and her accomplice, Prince Atigbi, for orchestrating a fake kidnapping to extort N2 million from the girl’s parents.
A statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, said the case was reported on January 2, 2025, by Mrs. Oliko Joy, who disclosed that her daughter, Princess had gone missing on December 30, 2024.
The family was subsequently contacted by alleged kidnappers, who demanded a ransom of N2million for her safe return.
Commissioner of Police in the state, Olufemi Abaniwonda, swiftly ordered the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad, led by CSP Labe Joseph, to prioritize the case.
“Through meticulous intelligence-led investigation, the squad successfully tracked down Prince Atigbi, who had collected the ransom money.
“Upon interrogation, Atigbi confessed that he was not a kidnapper but had collaborated with his girlfriend, Princess Okolie, in the scheme to deceive her parents. Following his confession, Princess was apprehended and admitted to faking her own kidnapping to extort money from her family.
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“The two suspects are now in police custody and the ransom money has been recovered. Investigations are ongoing to uncover any further details about the crime,” the statement said.
In the statement, CP Abaniwonda condemned the actions of the suspects and emphasized the need for parents and guardians to focus on the moral upbringing of their children.
“Raising children in the ways of God and instilling good values can prevent such actions, which cause pain to families and disrupt society,” he stated.
As investigations continue, the police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities.
For now, Princess Okolie and her accomplice will face the full weight of the law, serving as a stern reminder of the consequences of deceitful acts.
