Edo Police Command Exposes Staged Kidnapping, Arrests Suspects, Recovers Ransom

The Edo State Police Command has successfully uncovered and apprehended individuals involved in a self-orchestrated kidnapping case following prompt investigations and intelligence-led operations by officers from New Etete Division, Benin City.

On October 27, 2025, Paul Adaniken reported that his wife, Chioma Success Ezebie, 27, and their three-year-old son, Andrea, were allegedly kidnapped around midday, with kidnappers demanding a ransom of five million naira (₦5,000,000) for their release.

Responding swiftly, detectives launched discreet and thorough investigations alongside the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, which utilized cyber analysis and intelligence operations to uncover the truth. It was revealed that the victim’s cousin, Osita Godfrey, 33, was complicit in the crime. His confession led to the arrest of Chioma Success Adaniken, who had conspired with accomplices to fake her abduction in order to extort money from her husband.

Another suspect, Martins Chidozie, 23, was also taken into custody. All suspects have provided valuable confessions. The case has now been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and prosecution.

Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, commended the New Etete Division officers for their swift and effective response, which exposed the deception. He urged the public to avoid actions that disrupt peace and assured that the Command will continue employing intelligence and technology-driven strategies to combat crime in all forms.

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