The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested four suspects, including two sisters, for orchestrating a fake kidnapping to extort ₦5 million from their own father.
According to a statement by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, the incident began on July 18, 2025, when 16-year-old Lead Way Innocent left home in Jikwoyi Phase II, Abuja, claiming she was going for an exam at Government Secondary School, Karu, but never returned. Her father, Mr. Innocent, later received a ransom call from unknown persons demanding ₦5 million for her release.
The case was promptly reported to the Jikwoyi Police Division, where the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) launched a discreet investigation. Using advanced intelligence and digital tracking, detectives traced the ransom calls to a house within Jikwoyi Phase II.
Upon raiding the location, officers found Lead Way Innocent comfortably eating and chatting with Mrs. Tina Mayowa, the wife of another suspect, Mr. Mayowa Adedeji. There were no signs of distress or abduction.
Further investigation revealed a shocking conspiracy involving Lead Way’s elder sister, Joy Innocent, and her boyfriend, Mr. Adedeji. Joy allegedly masterminded the plot alongside her boyfriend, planning to deceive their father into paying a fake ransom. Both sisters were fully aware of the scheme, with Lead Way voluntarily staying in hiding while her parents frantically tried to gather funds for her “release.”
All four suspects have confessed to the crime and are currently in police custody. They will be charged to court upon the completion of investigations.
The FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Sunday Adewale, condemned the incident, describing it as a disturbing case of betrayal within the family. He urged parents to foster open communication with their children and remain vigilant of their emotional wellbeing.
The CP also warned that the Police will not tolerate attempts to exploit family bonds for criminal activities. He encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity to the police via emergency numbers 0803 200 3913 or 0806 158 1938.
