The arrest of eight foreign nationals over an alleged staged kidnapping scheme has stunned many residents in Ogun State. What initially appeared to be a genuine abduction case was later uncovered as a suspected cross-border fraud operation.
The suspects were arrested during an intelligence-led operation in Adiyan Town, located in the Agbado area of the state. Police said the group allegedly staged a fake kidnapping and attempted to collect ransom from family members living abroad.
According to the police, the investigation began after a report was received from a concerned informant. The report claimed that a 23-year-old Mauritanian national, Cheik El-Mehdi, contacted his family in May 2026 and alleged that he had been kidnapped in Nigeria.
Police said ransom demands were later made to the victim’s relatives.
The command stated:
“The breakthrough followed a report received on June 6, 2026, from a concerned informant, who alerted the Police that a 23-year-old Mauritanian national, Cheik El-Mehdi, had contacted his family abroad in May 2026 claiming he had been kidnapped in Nigeria and demanding ransom for his release.”
Furthermore, investigators alleged that another suspect intensified the pressure on the family.
According to the police:
“Shortly after, another suspect, Zakaria Zawadogo, reinforced the demand with threats that the victim would be killed if the ransom was not paid.”
Police said operatives quickly moved into action after receiving credible information.
The command added:
“Acting on this intelligence, operatives were swiftly mobilised to the location, where Zakaria Zawadogo was arrested.”
Meanwhile, investigators said the arrest led to additional breakthroughs.
“He subsequently led detectives to the syndicate’s hideout, resulting in the arrest of Cheik El-Mehdi, Suren Neta, and five other foreign nationals.”
The suspects include five citizens of Ivory Coast, one from Burkina Faso, one from Mauritania, and one from the Republic of Benin. In addition, officers secured and searched the property in line with legal procedures.
One of the most unseen parts of the investigation was the alleged involvement of the supposed victim.
Police said preliminary findings suggested the operation was carefully planned.
According to the command:
“It was further established that Suren Neta lured Cheik El-Mehdi into Nigeria, while Zakaria Zawadogo coordinated the ransom demands and issued threats to compel payment.”
The statement further noted:
“The purported victim was also found to have actively participated in the orchestration of the fake abduction.”
Authorities revealed that some of the principal suspects allegedly confessed during questioning. However, investigations remain ongoing.
Meanwhile, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, praised detectives for their swift response and professionalism.
He said the operation exposed a criminal plot that could have resulted in significant financial losses.
Furthermore, the police boss stressed the need for stronger intelligence gathering and international cooperation.
