Cross River Police Arrest Four in Foiled Kidnap Attempt, Thwart N7 Million Ransom Demand (Photos)

 The Cross River State Police Command has successfully arrested four suspects involved in an alleged conspiracy and attempted kidnapping in Yahe community, Yala Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects, identified as Adedeji Goodluck (21), Sylvester Akpa (20), Chinonso Nwibo Emmanuel (25), and Richard Innocent (22)—all reported to have no fixed addresses—were apprehended following a tip-off that enabled swift intervention.

According to police sources and the Command's Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Akata (also referred to as ASP Sunday Eitokpah in some reports), one of the suspects, Chinonso Nwibo Emmanuel, allegedly lured the victim, Adedeji Goodluck, from Abuja to Yahe community under false pretenses. Upon arrival, the victim was held captive while the suspects demanded a ransom of N7 million from his parents in Abuja.

The kidnappers reportedly threatened to kill the victim for ritual purposes if the ransom was not paid promptly. They held meetings to plan the operation and made repeated phone calls to the victim's family to press their demands.

The plot was foiled thanks to a Good Samaritan's tip-off, which prompted a joint rescue operation involving a local vigilante group and police operatives. The victim was rescued unharmed and is currently in protective custody with authorities.

The suspects are now in police detention, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy. Upon completion, they will be charged accordingly.

ASP Akata commended the collaboration between the vigilantes and police for the timely action that prevented the crime from escalating. He reiterated the Command's commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.

This incident underscores the persistent threat of kidnapping in parts of Nigeria, often involving ransom demands, and highlights the role of community vigilance in foiling such attempts.

The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly to security agencies.