Police unmask fake kidnapping behind viral schoolboy video

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested five suspects over a staged kidnapping that sparked public outrage after a viral video showed a schoolboy pleading for mercy in what was presented as a kidnappers’ den.

The suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad on 17 and 18 December 2025, following intelligence-led investigations into the incident, which initially caused widespread concern.

Police investigations revealed that the case was first reported as a missing person at the Ago Palace Police Division on 26 November 2025. However, further inquiries established that the alleged abduction was deliberately orchestrated by the supposed victim, Victor Aligwo, in collaboration with four friends.

According to the police, the fake kidnapping was carried out in a room belonging to one of the suspects, Umeh Victor, where the distress video was recorded and circulated to create fear and panic.

Those arrested were identified as Kosiko Patrick, 17; Victor Aligwo, 15; David Odudu, 19; Anyabike Kingsley, 20; and Umeh Victor, 19. They were picked up at the Volkswagen Roundabout and in the Ago Palace area of Lagos.

Further investigation revealed that the suspects allegedly planned the act to extort money from Aligwo’s mother, who had recently received ₦4 million from a contribution. To make the scheme appear genuine, the group recorded and shared a video showing the boy pleading for help, thereby pressuring the family to pay ransom.

Police disclosed that a ransom of ₦1.7 million was eventually paid by the boy’s mother and transferred to the account of one of the suspects. The money was later shared among the group.

Operatives were able to trace the transaction through the Point-of-Sale terminal used for the transfer, leading to the arrest of all those involved.

The suspects are currently in police custody, while investigations continue. The police said they will be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction upon the conclusion of investigations.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities, assuring residents that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property.

The police also reassured members of the public that the incident was not a genuine case of kidnapping and urged residents to remain calm and go about their lawful activities. The command encouraged the public to report suspicious activities through its emergency lines.