Edo Police Uncover Staged Kidnapping Scheme by Factory Worker

The Edo State Police Command has revealed that a reported kidnapping case involving an employee of Dibecs Industry Limited in Okpella was a staged event, fabricated to conceal a significant financial loss.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the command’s spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, the incident began on January 30, 2026, when Moses Ekes reported his 21-year-old nephew, David Ekes, missing. David, a dispatch officer, had reportedly vanished three days earlier after leaving his quarters on an unauthorized, unregistered motorcycle.

Police from the Okpella Division swiftly responded, searching the area and recovering the abandoned motorcycle.

Missing Person Returns with False Tale

The situation took a turn the following day when David Ekes returned, appearing weak. He was taken to a local hospital and later claimed to police that he had been abducted by three unidentified men. He alleged they forced him to trek barefoot for days, stole his phone, and withdrew money from his bank account.

Investigation Reveals Deception

However, a discreet police investigation uncovered a different story. It was revealed that shortly before his disappearance, David Ekes had lost ₦1,308,000 belonging to his company and a customer through online sports betting. To hide this loss, he allegedly traveled to Abuja, sold his phone, checked into a hotel, and orchestrated his own kidnapping narrative.

The police confirmed that the suspect has confessed to staging the incident.

Commissioner Issues Warning

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, cautioned the public against making false reports, stating such actions erode public trust and divert critical security resources. He also advised youths engaged in gambling to exercise responsibility, warning that addiction can lead to desperate and criminal behavior.

Separate Kidnapping Investigation Continues

In a related development, the command noted that its investigation into the recent abduction of Dr. Abu Babatunde and the killing of his brother is ongoing. Police have arrested three suspects and are working to dismantle the criminal network behind kidnappings in the Auchi area.