The Lagos State Police Command has taken legal action against seven individuals accused of kidnapping and demanding a ransom of N2 million. Among the defendants arraigned are Cynthia Okere (14), Blessing Amutie (22), Caleb Amutie (13), Joshua Amutie (13), Uche Amutie (25), Mustapha Asimiyu (24), and Gafar Tijani (24).
The charges brought against them include felony, kidnapping, and ransom demand, as stated during their arraignment at the Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court. Despite the charges, all defendants pleaded not guilty.
According to the prosecutor, Ayodele Adeosun, the alleged offences took place on March 6 around 12:50 p.m. in Iyana-Era, Ijanikin. The defendants purportedly conspired to commit felony by kidnapping and demanding a ransom of N2 million.
The offences outlined are in violation of sections 411, 172 (1) (2), and 172 (3) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos, 2015.
In response to the arraignment, Chief Magistrate Patrick Adekomaiya granted bail to each defendant in the sum of N500,000, with two sureties required to stand as guarantors. Additionally, the magistrate directed that defendants who are under 18 years of age—specifically the first, third, and fourth defendants—should be remanded in Oregun Juvenile Corrective Home, Lagos, or a similar facility.
The case has been adjourned until May 5 for further mention, as legal proceedings continue.
