Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command have arrested a 26-year-old man, Chibuike Joshua Ugwuja, for allegedly staging his own kidnapping and demanding ₦35 million ransom from his family.
Ugwuja, a private security guard at an estate in Trans-Ekulu, Enugu, was apprehended by officers of the Trans-Ekulu Division after investigations revealed that his kidnap report was fabricated.
Father Alerts Police
The suspect’s father reported to the police on November 24, 2025, that his son had not returned home after going to work on November 22. He further disclosed that a message sent through a female neighbour’s Facebook account claimed Ugwuja had been abducted by unknown persons who were demanding ransom.
Following the report, police launched a search and rescue operation in a bid to locate the supposed victim.
Family Produces Suspect
While investigations were ongoing, Ugwuja’s father brought him to the police station on November 30, 2025, after sustained police efforts to track his movements.
Suspect Confesses
During interrogation, Ugwuja confessed to faking the abduction. According to the police, he left work and stayed with a friend in Amorji Nike, from where he communicated false kidnap claims and demanded ransom. He later returned home on November 29 after failing to secure the money.
Ugwuja reportedly said he carried out the act due to frustration over his uncle’s alleged refusal to help him purchase a tricycle.
Police to Prosecute
The suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded. The police stressed their commitment to prosecuting anyone who causes public panic or abuses public trust.
Commissioner Condemns Action
Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, described the act as “a regrettable height of criminality.” He commended the suspect’s parents for reporting the matter instead of hiding him.
He urged the public to always report suspected kidnap cases to authorities rather than rushing to pay ransom, and advised citizens to avoid actions that induce fear, panic, and unnecessary distress in society.
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