Dismissed Soldier Arrested for Kidnapping and Extortion in Osun State
Operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Osun State Police Command have apprehended Emmanuel Anthony, a 34-year-old former soldier, for his role in a kidnapping scheme that extorted N3 million from victims.
Anthony, who claimed to have served over 14 years in the Nigerian Army, including on a United Nations mission, had been dismissed in January 2024 due to desertion, insubordination, and various other offenses.
Incident Overview
On May 31, 2024, Anthony, accompanied by an accomplice named David Agbebaku—currently in police custody in Oyo State—reportedly traveled from Ibadan to Esa-Oke in Osun State. Clad in military attire, the duo kidnapped two individuals, Amole Muiz and Adegoke Gbenga, coercing them to transfer N3 million into a Moniepoint account prior to their release. The victims subsequently reported the incident to authorities, prompting the Anti-Kidnapping Squad to launch an investigation that ultimately led to Anthony’s arrest in Ibadan.
Suspect’s Admission
During his display at the police headquarters, Anthony confessed to his participation in the crime and revealed that he wore counterfeit military ranks during the operation. “The military uniforms were mine. I bought the three-star rank and attached it to my outfit. David brought me from Ibadan for the mission,” he stated.
Anthony also provided details about his military service, saying, “I served in the Nigerian Army for 14 years and nine months, taking part in a UN mission in 2014 with the 35 192 Battalion and also served in the Northeast. I faced a court-martial for various misdeeds and was discharged as a corporal in January 2024.” He expressed remorse for his actions, adding, “I am aware that I have committed a significant crime against the military and Nigeria. I deeply regret my actions and hope for forgiveness. I assure you this will not happen again.”
Further Criminal Activity
According to police spokesperson Yemisi Opalola, Anthony and his accomplices also targeted two other victims, Olawumi Oluwaseun and Ishola, holding them against their will while robbing them of two iPhones worth N1.25 million before they were released. Opalola confirmed that authorities tracked Anthony to Ibadan, where he was arrested and subsequently identified by the victims.
“The suspect was recognized as a member of the armed robbery gang responsible for the incident. He will face charges in court,” she stated. The police have committed to ongoing efforts to locate additional individuals involved in the crime.
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