NPF Dismantles Transnational Kidnapping Syndicate, Rescues Two Ghanaian Victims

NPF Dismantles Transnational Kidnapping Syndicate, Rescues Two Ghanaian Victims

In a significant breakthrough against transnational crime, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has successfully dismantled an international kidnapping syndicate and rescued two Ghanaian nationals who were victims of abduction in Nigeria.

According to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), the operation was initiated following a report submitted to the National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, on April 27, 2025, concerning the kidnapping of 48-year-old Ghanaian citizen, Anastasia Arthur, also known as Baidoo.

The Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the NPF launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, which was initially linked to a Facebook romance scam. Through advanced intelligence and technical tracking, the team uncovered a network of criminals operating between Ghana and Nigeria.

Working in synergy with the Ghanaian Police Service, the IRT arrested 27-year-old Nigerian national, Emeka Christian, in Bolgatanga, Upper Eastern Ghana. Christian confessed to receiving GH₵10,000 in ransom via his Ghanaian mobile account and transferring the Naira equivalent to a Nigerian bank account owned by one Peter Okoye.

Subsequent operations led to the arrest of Peter Okoye on May 1, 2025, at approximately 1:22 PM in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Alongside him, two accomplices—Paulinus Chidokwe, 35, and Chinonso Okafor, 35—were also apprehended.

In a coordinated move, the operatives rescued the two kidnapped victims, Ms. Anastasia Arthur and Ms. Amaseerwaa Konadu. The victims, who had been held in deplorable conditions, are currently receiving medical care.

The suspects are undergoing interrogation, and the police have vowed to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, praised the swift and effective operation, highlighting it as a testament to the force’s dedication to international collaboration and the fight against organized crime.

“This operation showcases the capacity of the Nigeria Police Force to respond to complex international crimes and safeguard lives across borders,” the IGP stated. He also warned the public against falling prey to online romance scams and encouraged timely reporting of suspicious activity.

For information or to report crimes, contact the Nigeria Police Force through the following channels:
Email: pressforabuja@police.gov.ng
X (Twitter): @PoliceNG
Facebook: @ngpolice
Instagram: @nigeriapoliceforce

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, fCAI
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
Dated: May 2, 2025