In a startling revelation, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has exposed a staged kidnapping incident in Aniocha North, describing it as a “reckless and criminal act” that undermines public trust and security operations.
The case involved a young man who faked his own abduction and circulated a viral video from a forested area, where he appeared bound, creating the illusion of being held hostage.
The video sparked widespread panic among residents and anguish for his family before investigations revealed it was a hoax.
According to Senator Nwoko, he was alerted by the victim’s parent through a distress call. Acting immediately, he mobilized the police and local vigilantes to launch a rescue mission.
However, security operatives later discovered the abduction had been staged, with motives yet to be fully established.
“Staged kidnappings traumatize families, waste vital security resources, erode public trust, and trivialize the suffering of genuine victims,” the Senator said in a statement.
He warned that such behavior is “alien to the values of our people in Delta North” and must not be allowed to take root.
Senator Nwoko urged security agencies to prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law, stressing the need for deterrence.
“This deceit has no place in our society,” he declared, reaffirming his commitment to support law enforcement and safeguard peace across Delta North.
The incident has also reignited concerns about the misuse of social media to spread fear and perpetrate fraudulent schemes, further straining Nigeria’s already overstretched security architecture.
Community leaders and residents have widely commended Senator Nwoko’s swift intervention and strong call for accountability.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, told reporters he was yet to receive an official report on the incident but assured that details would be made available once investigations progress.
