Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a couple, Emmanuel and Mmesoma Okafor, for allegedly kidnapping an online vendor and extorting her in the Iyana Ishashi area of Lagos.
The command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest during a press briefing on Monday, revealing the shocking details of the crime.
According to Hundeyin, the victim — whose name has been withheld for security reasons — had gone to Iyana Ishashi on Sunday, March 9, 2025, to deliver a product to a customer who had placed an online order. However, upon arrival at the address, she was ambushed by the couple.
“As soon as she knocked on the door, Emmanuel and Mmesoma Okafor forcibly dragged her inside their home,” Hundeyin said. “They stripped her naked, assaulted her, took nude pictures of her, and then demanded a ransom of N2 million.”
The suspects reportedly threatened to leak the images online if the victim failed to pay the ransom. Fearing for her safety and reputation, the victim managed to transfer N300,000 to the couple on the spot in a desperate bid to secure her release.
“They allowed her to go after collecting N300,000 but warned that the nude photos would be made public if she didn’t pay the N2 million balance,” the police spokesperson added.
The traumatized victim reported the incident to the police, prompting an urgent investigation.
“Our operatives immediately swung into action, tracked the suspects, and arrested them,” Hundeyin said. “They are currently in police custody, and investigations are ongoing.”
The Lagos State Police Command has assured the public that justice will be served, urging online vendors to exercise caution when making physical deliveries by verifying customer identities and choosing safe, public meeting points.
The police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents and have encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities.
