How Oluchi Ugbowan Allegedly Staged Her Own Kidnap in Edo to Raise Money and Clear Debt – Police Report

Edo Woman Oluchi Ugbowan Confesses to Staging Own Kidnapping Over Debt Pressure, Police Arrest Four Suspects

By EdoToday.com

A 45-year-old Edo woman, Oluchi Ugbowan, has revealed how financial pressure allegedly pushed her into staging her own kidnapping in an attempt to raise money to settle debts, according to the Edo State Police Command.

The woman, who was arrested alongside three other suspects at a hotel in the Ikpoba Hills area of Edo State, admitted that the reported abduction was not real but a planned arrangement designed to convince her family to provide ransom money.

The incident had initially caused concern after her family reported that she had been kidnapped, with a ransom demand of ₦50 million reportedly made.

However, during a police presentation, Ugbowan explained that she was not abducted but had gone into hiding as part of a plan to create the impression that she had been taken by criminals.

Debt Pressure Behind Alleged Kidnap Plot

According to Ugbowan, the idea came after she struggled with financial obligations and needed money to settle her debts.

She told police that the pressure became overwhelming and influenced her decision to create the false kidnapping scenario.

She said she contacted Israel Ability, who later became involved in the arrangement, and discussions began on how to carry out the plan.

Ugbowan explained that the amount to be demanded from her family changed during their discussions before the situation developed into a staged kidnapping drama.

Fake Abduction Video Created to Convince Family

The police said the suspects allegedly created a video showing Ugbowan appearing to be held captive in an attempt to make the story believable.

Ugbowan admitted that she participated in recording the video and even tied her own hands to make the situation appear like a real abduction.

She also disclosed that items including a cutlass and a firearm were used during the recording to create a more convincing scene.

According to her, the intention was to increase pressure on her family to provide money.

Suspect Reveals Role in the Arrangement

One of the suspects, Israel Ability, told police that Ugbowan approached him with the plan and requested his assistance.

He said he helped obtain the SIM card used for the ransom communication and assisted in arranging the hotel location where the staged incident was recorded.

Ability said he later regretted his involvement, claiming he did not anticipate the consequences of participating in the plan.

Second Suspect Claims He Thought It Was a Drama

Another suspect, Chinedu Chibuzor, said he believed Ugbowan was preparing a drama performance and claimed he did not understand the full details of the arrangement.

He admitted participating in the recording, including appearing with a firearm during the staged scene.

Police Arrest Four Suspects

The Edo State Police Command later arrested Ugbowan and the other suspects after investigations into the alleged kidnapping report.

The case has drawn attention in Edo State, highlighting the dangers and legal consequences associated with staging criminal incidents or making false reports.

Authorities are expected to continue investigations as the matter progresses.

EdoToday.com will continue to provide updates on security, crime, and major developments across Edo State.