Police Uncover ‘Constructive Kidnapping’ Trend, Rescues 16 Women in Lagos

• Lagos State Government Uncovers “Constructive Kidnapping” trend
• They have rescued 16 women so far
• CP Olawale Ishola says Police are always one step ahead

The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a disturbing new trend of kidnapping, labeled ‘Constructive Kidnapping,’ where unsuspecting women are lured by criminals posing as internet friends or romantic interests.

Between September 2024 and January 2025, police successfully rescued 16 women who had fallen victim to this scheme, which operates in a chillingly calculated manner.

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The kidnappers first establish a fake connection with their victims through social media, often portraying themselves as potential lovers. Once trust is built, the criminals entice their targets to Lagos, offering flights and luxurious accommodations.

Some victims were even promised sums up to N500,000 as part of the lure.

Upon arrival in Lagos, the victims are taken to five-star hotels where their phones are seized, and their bank accounts drained.

The kidnappers then contact the victim’s family, demanding large ransoms under the threat of harm or death if payment is not made.

Lagos State Police Commissioner, CP Olawale Ishola, explained that the term ‘Constructive Kidnapping’ refers to the process where the victims unknowingly walk into a trap that has been meticulously set by the criminals.

“The victims feel they have ‘arrived,’ unaware it is all a ploy,” said Ishola. He emphasized that police are always one step ahead, with multiple arrests made as part of their ongoing investigation.

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In a separate case, police also uncovered a plot by a 15-year-old girl and her boyfriend, who faked her kidnapping to extort ransom from her family. The girl, found with her boyfriend and a baby, was arrested on January 9, 2025, after the family had already sent money to the kidnappers.

Authorities are urging the public, especially women, to remain vigilant and cautious when engaging with strangers online.

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