Edo State – A 27-year-old woman, Chioma Success Ezebie, has been arrested by the Edo State Police Command for allegedly kidnapping herself and extorting N5 million from her husband.

The incident reportedly occurred on October 27, 2025, when Chioma, along with her three-year-old son, staged an abduction. An accomplice, Martins Chidozie (23), contacted her husband, Paul Adaniken, claiming they had been kidnapped.

Upon receiving the report, the Edo Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit launched a cyber and intelligence-led investigation. Their efforts led to the arrest of Chioma’s cousin, Osita Godfrey (33), who was allegedly involved in providing information to facilitate the scheme. Godfrey’s confessional statement subsequently implicated Chioma.

Deputy Spokesman ASP Eno Ikoedem confirmed that all suspects had confessed to their roles in the plot. The recovered ransom of N5 million has been secured, and the case has been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and prosecution.

The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, praised the swift and tactical response of officers at the New Etete Division and warned residents against actions that could undermine public peace. He emphasized that the Edo Police will continue to deploy intelligence and technology-driven strategies to combat crime in all its forms.