The Lagos State Police Command has recently identified a disturbing trend in kidnapping known as "Constructive Kidnapping." This method involves unsuspecting women being lured by individuals posing as friends or romantic interests online.
The police have reported that this scheme has already victimized 16 women from various locations within the state, although they were successfully rescued.
In a separate incident, a 15-year-old girl was found after allegedly collaborating with her boyfriend to fabricate a kidnapping scenario in order to extort ransom from her parents.
Commissioner of Police Olawale Ishola explained the mechanics of this "Constructive Kidnapping" during a press briefing. He described how kidnappers initiate contact by befriending potential victims on social media, creating an illusion of familiarity. Once the victims feel comfortable, they are invited to Lagos under the pretense of a romantic meeting.
The perpetrators often entice their targets with substantial financial offers, including up to N500,000 and covering travel expenses.
Upon arrival in Lagos, these women are taken to luxurious hotels where their phones are confiscated and funds transferred from their accounts. The kidnappers then reach out to the victims' families, demanding ransom and issuing threats if their demands are not met.
Commissioner Ishola characterized this tactic as "constructive" because victims unwittingly enter a trap that has been carefully set for them.
He urged the public, particularly women, to exercise caution when interacting with strangers online and emphasized the importance of vigilance in recognizing suspicious activities.
