The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 29-year-old man, Bello Azeez, for allegedly faking his own kidnapping in a desperate attempt to extort ₦500,000 from his family and acquaintances.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the suspect, a native of Ipele in Owo Local Government Area, orchestrated the fake abduction after his father declined a request for financial help.
“When his request was turned down, he staged his abduction,” Ayanlade said. “On August 11, he claimed he was travelling to Ibadan and then began making distress calls to his parents and friends, alleging that he had been kidnapped.”
In a surprising twist, Azeez instructed his family to transfer the alleged ransom of ₦500,000 directly into his personal bank account—a red flag that raised suspicions among his relatives.
To gather the funds, his family reportedly pooled contributions from relatives and even launched a GoFundMe campaign, unaware it was all part of a deceitful plot.
Suspicious of the arrangement, the family contacted the police, who swiftly launched an investigation. Tracking Azeez’s phone revealed he had never left Owo, contrary to his claims.
He was subsequently arrested and, during interrogation, confessed to staging the kidnapping in order to clear a personal debt.
DSP Ayanlade condemned the act, describing it as a stark reminder of how greed and deception can destroy trust and bring legal consequences.
“This case underscores the dangers of greed and deceit, which can ruin lives. Parents and guardians are urged to guide their children against crime, peer influence, and moral decadence,” he said.
Azeez is expected to be charged in court once investigations are concluded.
The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement efforts to promote peace, security, and social responsibility in the state.
