The Ondo State Police Command has arrested three young men for allegedly staging a fake kidnap incident aimed at extorting money from a family member.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the case was first reported to the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad after information spread that a 22-year-old truck driver, Tobi Oluwatuyi, had been abducted at Ilu Abo in Akure.
Acting on the report, detectives launched what was described as a swift and thorough investigation.
However, findings soon revealed that the supposed victim had conspired with two others Jubril Abu, 20, and Segun Oluwatuyi, 21to fake the kidnap.
The trio allegedly planned the act to demand a ransom of ₦1.5 million, which was eventually paid by the victim’s unsuspecting family.
The police said all suspects later confessed to orchestrating the scheme, confirming it was a deliberate attempt to fraudulently obtain money.
They are expected to be charged to court upon conclusion of the ongoing investigation.
Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for sustained support to the Command, noting that such backing has continued to strengthen investigative efficiency across the state.
He urged residents to promptly report kidnap-related incidents and resist pressure to pay ransom, insisting that doing so fuels criminality.
The CP also warned against the rising practice of self-kidnapping, describing it as a serious offence that will always be uncovered through diligent policing.
The Command assured the public that Ondo State will not be allowed to become a safe haven for criminals, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property.
For inquiries, the statement listed the following contacts: 0906 058 8958, X (@OndoPoliceNg), Instagram (Ondopolicecommand), Facebook (Ondo Police Command), and email (ondopolice@gmail.com).
The statement was electronically signed by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, PPRO, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State, dated December 11, 2025.