The Lagos State Police Command has arrested five suspects over a fake, stage-managed kidnapping involving a schoolboy.

The suspects were apprehended on December 17 and 18, 2025, in connection with a viral video showing the boy pleading for mercy in what was presented as a kidnappers’ den.

In a statement on Friday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said, “Preliminary investigation revealed that the incident, which initially generated widespread public concern, was first reported as a missing person case at Ago Palace Division on November 26, 2025.

“Subsequent investigation established that the alleged kidnapping was deliberately orchestrated by the victim himself, Victor Aligwo, in collaboration with four friends, using the room of one of the suspects, Umeh Victor, to carry out the act.”

The suspects were identified as Kosiko Patrick (17), Victor Aligwo (15), David Odudu (19), Anyabike Kingsley (20), and Umeh Victor (19).

They were apprehended at Volkswagen Roundabout and the Ago Palace areas of the state respectively.

Investigators said the suspects allegedly staged the kidnapping to extort money from Aligwo’s mother, who had recently received ₦4 million from a contribution.

Adebisi added, “To make the fake kidnapping appear real, the suspects recorded and circulated a distress video showing Victor Aligwo pleading for help, creating fear and panic to compel his family to pay ransom.

“A sum of ₦1.7 million was paid by the mother and transferred to one of the suspects’ accounts. The money was later shared among them.

“Following the payment, police traced the Point-of-Sale terminal used for the transaction, leading to the arrest of all suspects involved.”

She said investigations are ongoing and that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of inquiries.

Commenting on the development, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, warned criminal elements to desist from crime, assuring Lagos residents that the command would not relent in ensuring the safety of lives and property.

The police also reassured residents that the incident was not a genuine kidnapping and urged the public to remain calm, continue their lawful activities, and promptly report any suspicious movements. (PUNCH)