The Anambra State Police Command says it has uncovered an alleged attempt by a 22-year-old woman to fake her abduction and obtain money from her family.
The woman, identified as Nwachukwu Blessing, was arrested after investigators traced her to Asaba, Delta State, following a kidnapping report that had triggered the payment of N3m in ransom.
Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the suspect was apprehended on Friday by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, based on intelligence gathered during the investigation.
The alleged abduction was said to have taken place on August 29 along the Onitsha–Asaba Expressway. Her family reportedly paid N3m to secure her release, but she was allegedly not freed.
Ikenga said the continued absence of the woman prompted investigators to dig deeper into the case.
“Following sustained intelligence gathering and investigative efforts, Police Operatives, in the afternoon of September 18, 2026, traced and located the alleged victim in a room in Asaba, Delta State, where she was recovered.
“Preliminary findings from the investigation indicated that the lady allegedly conspired with a female associate identified as Onyinye, whose other names are yet to be established, and another male accomplice, whose identity is presently unknown, to stage her own kidnapping and obtain money from her family.”
The police spokesperson explained that the investigation began after the reported abduction and subsequent ransom payment failed to result in Blessing’s release.
“The suspect was arrested by Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, following credible intelligence received in the course of an investigation into a reported kidnapping incident.
“The lady was reportedly abducted along the Onitsha–Asaba Expressway on 29th August 2026. However, despite the payment of N3 million ransom by her family, she was allegedly not released, prompting further investigation by the Police.
The suspect is now providing information to investigators as the command works to establish what transpired and locate the alleged accomplices.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Nnanna Ama, has directed that the probe be expanded to uncover the full details of the incident.
The command said anyone established to have played a role in the alleged offence would be dealt with according to the law.