The Niger State Police Command has arrested nine individuals suspected of masterminding a self-kidnapping scheme in Minna, the state capital. The arrest followed the recovery of 21 SIM cards and 29 SIM registration certificates from the suspects.
The development was confirmed in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, who said the investigation began on September 2, 2025, after a report of a suspected kidnapping was received at Tudun-Wada Division in the Mandela area of Minna.
“Following the report, a follow-up communication from an unknown number demanded a ransom of seven million naira,” SP Abiodun explained.
According to the police, the first arrest was made on September 3, when Suleiman Dauda was taken into custody. “During interrogation, Suleiman Dauda led investigators to eight other suspects residing in the Mandela area,” he added.
SP Abiodun disclosed that Suleiman claimed to be involved in SIM card registration and provided the phone number and handset used to demand the ransom to the purported victim.
A search of the suspect’s residence led to the recovery of 21 SIM cards and 29 SIM registration certificates. Further investigations revealed that the suspects, who come from different parts of Niger State and beyond, were engaged in fraudulent activities resembling Ponzi schemes.
Police also noted that one of the suspects colluded with the supposed victim to extort ransom from associates.
“The suspects are now facing prosecution in court, and investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend others involved in the scheme,” SP Abiodun said.