NPF Smashes Trans-Border Kidnap Syndicate, Rescues Two Ghanaian Women
In a major breakthrough against transnational crime, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismantled a cross-border kidnapping syndicate and rescued two Ghanaian women held in captivity.
Acting swiftly on a report filed on 27th April 2025, the NPF’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) launched an investigation into the abduction of 48-year-old Anastasia Arthur, also known as Baidoo.
The victim was lured through a Facebook love scam before being kidnapped.
Utilising advanced technical intelligence and working closely with the Ghanaian Police Service, investigators traced the criminal network operating in both Nigeria and Ghana.
The trail led to the arrest of 27-year-old Emeka Christian in Bolgatanga, Ghana.
He confessed to collecting GH₵10,000 ransom, which was later traced to a Nigerian bank account.
The operation climaxed on 1st May in Port Harcourt, where officers apprehended the prime suspect, Peter Okoye, alongside accomplices Paulinus Chidokwe and Chinonso Okafor. Both Ms Arthur and another victim, Amaseerwaa Konadu, were rescued and are currently receiving medical care after enduring dehumanising conditions.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, praised the officers’ swift action, reaffirming the NPF’s commitment to stamping out organised cross-border crimes.
A statement signed by the force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, urged the public to remain vigilant, especially against online romance scams and to report suspicious activity, to the NPF via: Email: pressforabuja@police.gov.ng
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