A motorcycle rider has been arrested by the Delta State Police Command for allegedly kidnapping a three-year-old child entrusted to his care and collecting a ₦500,000 ransom from the victim’s family.
The suspect, identified as Kelvin Ogaga, was reportedly hired by the child’s parents to convey her to and from school for a monthly fee of ₦10,000.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the suspect carried out his duties for about three weeks before executing the abduction.
On the day of the incident, Ogaga allegedly diverted from the usual route and took the child to an undisclosed location instead of school. He then used a different phone line to contact the family, initially demanding a ransom of ₦2 million.
To avoid suspicion, the suspect reportedly switched off his personal phone, making it difficult for the family to trace him. Despite threats from the kidnappers warning against police involvement, the family reported the case to authorities.
The ransom demand was later negotiated down to ₦500,000, which the family paid before the child was released unharmed.
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Following an intelligence-led investigation, police operatives arrested the suspect and recovered part of the ransom. During interrogation, Ogaga reportedly confessed to the crime, citing financial difficulties as his motive.
He also revealed that the plan was influenced by a friend identified as “Omo,” and alleged that his girlfriend was aware of the plot.
The police have launched a manhunt for other accomplices linked to the crime.
Authorities have urged parents and guardians to exercise caution and conduct thorough background checks before entrusting their children to caregivers, transporters, or service providers.
Police spokesperson Bright Edafe assured the public that the child is safe and investigations are ongoing to bring all involved to justice.
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