By Adesakin Adefemi
A 21-year-old dispatch officer, David Ekes, has been arrested by the Edo State Police Command for faking his own kidnapping to cover up a ₦1.3 million gambling loss. Ekes, an employee of Dibecs Industry Limited, had reported missing, claiming he was kidnapped by three unidentified men while riding his motorcycle from Factory 2 to Factory 3, contrary to company policy.
However, investigations revealed that Ekes had lost the money, belonging to his company and a customer, through online gambling on a visual sporty betting platform. He then travelled to Abuja, sold his mobile phone, lodged in a hotel, and staged his own kidnapping, going as far as to create a false narrative of being forced to trek barefoot through the forest for three days.
The police were alerted after Ekes’ uncle reported him missing, and a search was conducted. Ekes later turned up, claiming he was kidnapped and forced to trek barefoot through the forest for three days, but his story began to unravel as investigators dug deeper.
The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, warned members of the public against false distress reports and acts of criminal deception, noting that such actions undermine public confidence and waste critical security resources.
“We will not tolerate such reckless and deceitful behaviour,” Agbonika said. “It’s a waste of resources and puts lives at risk.”
Agbonika also advised youths involved in gambling to do so responsibly, as addiction often leads to desperation and criminal tendencies. “Gambling is a serious issue, and we urge parents and guardians to monitor their wards’ activities and ensure they are not falling prey to this menace,” he said.
Ekes has confessed to the crime and will be arraigned in court. His case highlights the dangers of gambling and the consequences of resorting to deceitful means to cover up losses.
The Edo State Police Command has also arrested three suspected kidnappers involved in the abduction of Dr. Abu Babatunde and the killing of his brother. Investigations are ongoing to dismantle the notorious organised criminal network.
As the news of Ekes’ fake kidnapping spreads, it’s serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of gambling and the importance of honesty. Let’s hope it serves as a wake-up call for those struggling with addiction and deceit.
