Five Nigerians residing in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines are facing criminal charges after being arrested for allegedly kidnapping a fellow Nigerian.

According to a report by local media, PhilStar, the suspects—Evans Enwwereaku Chinemerem, David Chidera Ibegbulamo, Nwokeke Christian Ihechukwu, Nwokeke Cajothan Chinemmerem, and Okonkwo Emmanuel Kosiso—are accused of kidnapping for ransom and violating Republic Act 10591, known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

The arrests took place early Thursday morning when operatives from the Philippine National Police Anti-Kidnapping Group, with support from local police in Mabalacat City and Angeles City, raided the suspects’ hideout in Barangay Malabanias at approximately 5 a.m.

The operation was initiated after the Anti-Kidnapping Group received information that the suspects had allegedly kidnapped one Kingsley Chukwuemeka Ikeagwuana, a Nigerian student residing at Urban Resort Residences in Parañaque City, holding him for ransom.

During the raid, authorities seized three firearms, including two .45 calibre pistols and a .38 calibre revolver, along with ammunition.

The suspects remain in police custody, and authorities have indicated that the arrests serve as a warning against criminal activities in the area.