Police arrest Lagos couple for ‘self-kidnap, demanding N5m’ from UK-based relatives

The Lagos state police command says it has arrested a couple over alleged self-kidnap for N5 million ransom.

Benjamin Hundeyin, the police spokesperson, who spoke to NAN on Saturday, said the husband, 53, and wife, 48, were arrested after a family member of the man reported the purported kidnap.

He said the couple, who admitted to the crime, said they planned the self-kidnap with the hope of raising N3 million to buy back their house in the Badagry area of Lagos.

“The man brought the idea and sold it to his wife. He did not deny it before the police,” Hundeyin said.

“He said he did it through text message for a purpose. He said he did it because he wanted to re-buy his house back with N3 million.

“The man claimed he decided to organise self-kidnap because none of his brothers and sisters doing well and some living abroad are willing to assist him financially.

“He claimed that if they hear of his kidnap with his wife, they would negotiate with the kidnappers and pay the money.”

Hundeyin said the police had visited the couple’s home and found out they were still living in their house in Badagry, while they sent out text messages of their kidnap to their relations.

The wife, who was met at home with three children, was asked by the police to follow them to the headquarters, Ikeja, but the woman pleaded to come at a later date.

The wife was eventually arrested on Wednesday, while the husband was arrested on Thursday.

“She admitted that she supported her husband in the crime. She also admitted that her husband discussed the matter with her and she gave her approval because they never thought it will turn out negative,” Hundeyin said.

“The woman claimed if the plan worked out, it would have been the easiest way to raise the money to buy back their house since her husband’s brothers in UK are not willing to help him.”

He said the couple will be charged to court soon.