Man Arrested After Paying ₦900,000 to Kidnap Aunt Who Raised Him in Delta State

Police say suspect hired fake kidnappers in failed plot against his benefactor aunt.

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By Obehi Ojo
Asaba, Nigeria

The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 31-year-old man, Chukwemeka Destiny, for allegedly plotting to kidnap his aunt who raised him from childhood. Authorities say the suspect paid ₦900,000 to individuals he believed were kidnappers before being handed over to the police in a sting operation.

Police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest on Saturday, saying the suspect was intercepted after attempting to execute the planned abduction of the woman who cared for him between the ages of five and 15.

According to the police, Destiny made two separate payments — ₦200,000 initially and a further ₦700,000 — to individuals he believed were hired kidnappers. Unknown to him, the contacts were part of a covert operation that exposed the plot and led to his arrest.

Edafe explained that the so-called kidnappers collaborated with law enforcement and used the suspect’s actions as bait to prevent the crime and ensure his arrest.

Alleged Betrayal of Benefactor

Investigations revealed that the victim is the elder sister of Destiny’s mother and had taken responsibility for raising him through his formative years. Police said he later left the household and reportedly cut ties with the family before allegedly returning with the intention to orchestrate her abduction.

Edafe described the case as a troubling example of betrayal against a family benefactor, noting that the suspect’s actions were premeditated despite his upbringing under the victim’s care.

Suspect’s Confession

During interrogation, Destiny admitted involvement in the plot but claimed he could not explain his motivation.

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“Sincerely speaking, I am guilty of what happened. I don’t know what came over me,” he said, adding that the funds used were sourced from his haulage and building materials business.

Victim’s Reaction

The aunt, who survived the attempted plot, expressed shock over the incident. She said she was overwhelmed with emotion upon learning of the plan and insisted that due process should be followed.

“I was shocked, crying,” she said, adding that she wants the law to take its course.

Police Update

The Delta State Police Command confirmed that the suspect remains in custody while investigations continue.

Authorities say further findings will determine additional charges and possible accomplices.

The case highlights rising concerns over violent crime involving family members and the growing use of intermediaries in kidnapping plots. It also underscores the increasing reliance on undercover operations by security agencies to pre-empt serious crimes.