The Ogun State Police Command has arrested eight foreigners for their involvement in a fake kidnapping and extortion scheme.

The suspects, who come from different West African countries, were caught in Adiyan Town, Agbado area of the state. They allegedly staged the kidnapping of one of their own to demand ransom from his family abroad.

The operation was uncovered after intelligence reports reached the police. A 23-year-old Mauritanian named Cheik El-Mehdi reportedly contacted his family claiming he had been kidnapped and needed money for his release. Another suspect, Zakaria Zawadogo from Burkina Faso, made threats to support the demand. Detectives from Ifo Division tracked them to their hideout and made the arrests.

The arrested suspects include nationals from Burkina Faso, Mauritania, Ivory Coast, Republic of Benin, and others. Police said the group worked together to simulate the abduction. The supposed victim was also found to have taken part in planning the fraud. The case has now been moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further probe.

Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, praised the officers for their quick and professional response. He warned that such transnational crimes are becoming more common and urged residents to report any suspicious activities, especially those involving ransom demands. The police remain committed to dismantling these criminal networks.

This arrest highlights the growing threat of cross-border fraud schemes in Nigeria. Many families abroad often fall victim to such tricks, sending money in panic. The police action serves as a warning to criminals that security agencies are watching and will not allow such activities to thrive in Ogun State or anywhere else in the country.