Sisters, Couple Nabbed in Abuja Over Fake Kidnap to Extort Father

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested four individuals two sisters and a married couple for allegedly staging a fake kidnapping in a bid to extort ₦5 million from the father of one of the girls.

The suspects include 16-year-old Lead Way Innocent, her elder sister Joy Innocent, Joy’s boyfriend Mayowa Adedeji, and his wife Tina Mayowa. Police say the group conspired to fake Lead Way’s abduction to obtain ransom money from her unsuspecting father.

According to police reports, the case began on July 30, 2025, when Mr. Innocent reported his daughter missing after she failed to return home from an exam at Government Secondary School, Karu. The family later received a phone call from an anonymous number demanding ₦5 million for her release.

Detectives traced the phone number to a residence in Jikwoyi Phase II, Abuja. Officers raided the location and found the girl safe and relaxed, chatting with Tina Mayowa, one of the suspects. Further investigation revealed that the so-called victim willingly participated in the plan and had been staying at the residence the entire time.

Meanwhile, Joy Innocent remained at home with her parents, pretending to be concerned about her sister’s disappearance while helping to coordinate the ransom collection.

All four suspects were arrested and have reportedly confessed to the crime.

Commissioner of Police, Ajao Saka Adewale, confirmed the arrests and described the incident as a disturbing abuse of familial trust.

“This is a deeply troubling case of betrayal and criminal manipulation within a family,” he said. “Such actions not only cause emotional harm but also divert critical security resources. We will ensure that justice is served.”

The Commissioner warned against staging crimes for financial gain, stressing that the command would not tolerate criminal deceit under any guise.