Security guard kidnaps self, demands N50m ransom from employer

Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency have arrested a 36-year-old man for staging his own kidnapping and demanding a ransom of N50 million from his employer.

The suspect, identified as Akpooh Edet, worked as a security guard at Rubber Estate in Ose River, Ovia South West Local Council Area of Edo State, before his arrest.

Edet, one of 22 suspects paraded at the Amotekun Corps headquarters, was apprehended at his hideout in Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Council Area of Ondo State.

Commander of Ondo Amotekun, Adetunji Adeleye, revealed that Edet was arrested at the residence of one Libon James, who was reportedly unaware that the suspect had staged his own kidnapping. Adeleye added that the suspects would be handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.

The Senior Security Manager of the firm, Oluwole Adesonlu, disclosed that Edet had worked for the company for about 10 years. He explained that the suspect and his accomplices initially demanded N50 million, reduced it to N35 million, and later settled on N15 million.

He said, “We discovered that one of my guards was missing. We began the search for him and contacted the DSS. During the investigation, I contacted Amotekun in Igbotako, and Edet was tracked to his hiding place. Two accomplices were arrested in Edo State, and we discovered it was a self-kidnap to extort money from the company.”

Meanwhile, the Amotekun Corps has announced the deployment of no fewer than 1,200 operatives across Ondo State’s 18 local council areas for the yuletide season.

According to Adeleye, this deployment is crucial to maintaining peace during the festive period. He stated that black spots in the state’s three senatorial districts have been identified, and strategies are in place to prevent criminal activities.

The Corps will also collaborate with Osun State Amotekun to tackle crime along the Ilesa-Akure corridor during the yuletide.

“In collaboration with other security agencies, Amotekun has developed strategies to ensure that the influx of visitors during the Yuletide period does not increase crime rates in Ondo State.

“In the coming days, you will notice Amotekun personnel stationed at strategic locations and black spots across the 18 local government areas,” Adeleye said.