The Benue State Police Command has arrested a man accused of staging his own kidnapping in an attempt to extort ₦7 million from his family.
Police said the shocking case was uncovered during an intelligence-led investigation that exposed the alleged victim as part of the kidnapping plot.
According to the Command, the incident began on May 19, 2026, after the man was reported missing in Ushongo Local Government Area.
Family members reportedly became alarmed after receiving demands for ₦7 million ransom following his disappearance.
Police operatives immediately launched an investigation and arrested a suspect linked to the case.
Further intelligence gathering later led officers to Katsina-Ala, where two more suspects were arrested — including the supposed kidnapping victim himself.
Authorities said investigations revealed that the man allegedly conspired with others to fake the abduction and collect money from his family.
The suspects are currently in police custody while investigations continue.
Beyond the fake kidnap case, the Benue Police Command also announced the arrest of seven other suspected criminals in separate operations across the state.
According to police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet, tactical operatives stormed parts of Gboko Local Government Area after receiving intelligence about suspected armed robbers and kidnappers.
The operation reportedly led to a gun battle before five suspects were arrested.
Police recovered locally made AK-47 rifles, pistols and live ammunition from the suspects.
In another operation, officers attached to the Otukpo Division intercepted a Lexus RX 350 vehicle allegedly stolen at gunpoint in Owerri, Imo State.
One suspect was arrested while attempting to move the vehicle through Benue State.
The Command also revealed that it uncovered a suspected human trafficking and job scam syndicate accused of deceiving young women with fake overseas job promises.
According to police, some victims were allegedly trafficked and exploited before managing to escape and return to Nigeria.
One suspect has been arrested in connection with the trafficking case, while efforts are ongoing to track down other suspects believed to be operating outside the country.
Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, praised officers involved in the operations and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to fighting kidnapping, armed robbery, trafficking and other violent crimes.
He also urged residents to continue providing useful information to security agencies to support ongoing operations across the state.
Source: Benue State Police Command
