Nigerian kidnapper who takes ransom in dollars held Ghanaian passport – Police chief

A notorious kidnapper in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, held a Ghanaian passport according to the country’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris.

Chukwudubem Onwuamadike popularly known as Evans, was arrested last week following a police operation. He is said to be behind high-profile kidnapping of monarchs and businessmen with the expertise for seeking ransom only in dollars.

He was declared wanted in Africa’s most populous country since 2013 but it took a gun battle and international police cooperation before he was eventually busted in a Lagos apartment as he tried to escape through the roof.

Nigeria’s police chief, Ibrahim Idris disclosed Evans’ connection to Ghana while speaking at a regional security conference held in Accra. He said not only did the Evans hold a Ghanaian passport, he had investments and family in Ghana.

“Last week, we arrested a kidnapper. He has houses in Ghana and his family is based here in Ghana and that’s the only kidnapper that kidnaps and demands ransom in dollars.

“He has collected about $6 million so far in ransom and he keeps his victim for as long as six months, even if it means paying the ransom in instalments. It is sad that he keeps somebody for six months and doesn’t release the victim until that money was paid in full,” he said.

After his arrest, police alleged that he had confessed to the crime of kidnapping. He was arrested along with six lieutenants and a number of arms they supposedly use in operations.

Lagos is known for cases of kidnapping, same for other parts of the country. Sierra Leonean diplomat was kidnapped in northern Kaduna State, same as wife of the central bank chief weeks ago.

The most recent was a case involving school girls in Lagos State. The State has tightened its punishment for kidnapping to include death penalty but it remains to be seen to what extent that will help curb the menace.