Dispatch Rider in Edo Stages Own Kidnap After Losing N1.3 Million to Gambling

Dispatch Rider in Edo Stages Own Kidnap After Losing N1.3 Million to Gambling

A dispatch rider employed by Dibecs Industry Limited in Okpella, Edo State, has allegedly staged his own kidnapping after losing the company’s N1.3 million to online gambling, police investigations have revealed.

The rider, identified as David Ekes, reportedly lost the funds through a visual sports betting platform before travelling to Abuja, where he sold his mobile phone, checked into a hotel, and orchestrated a fake abduction to conceal the loss. Ekes’ disappearance first raised alarm when his brother, Moses Ekes, reported him missing to the Okpella Police Division on January 27, 2026, prompting police investigations to trace the missing rider.

The Edo State Police Command, through spokesperson Eno Ikoedem, disclosed that Ekes left his quarters alone on a black, unregistered motorcycle, moving from Factory 2 to Factory 3 — in violation of company policy — and was not seen again. The motorcycle was later found parked along the road leading to Factory 3, prompting police operatives to comb surrounding bush areas, document relevant findings, and commence inquiries.

READ ALSO:

• BREAKING: Tinubu Holds Reconciliation Meeting With Wike, Fubara, Rivers Leaders at Aso Rock
• Outrage in Plateau as Bandits Take Over Village, Force Residents to Flee
• ‘I Was Misquoted’ — NBA President Osigwe Clears Air on Bribery Claim

Ekes later returned voluntarily, reportedly weak, and was taken to a hospital in Okpella where police monitored his condition. He initially claimed that he had been abducted by three armed men, forced to trek barefoot through the forest for over three days, during which his Tecno Camon mobile phone was taken and money was allegedly withdrawn from his First Bank account.

Further investigation revealed that between January 25 and 26, 2026, Ekes had lost a total of ₦1,308,000 belonging to his employer and a customer through online gambling. To cover up the financial loss, he immediately travelled to Abuja, sold his mobile phone, checked into a hotel, and staged the kidnapping.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed that David Ekes has since confessed to orchestrating the fake abduction. He is expected to be arraigned in court, with police emphasizing that the prosecution will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider similar acts.

This case underscores a growing concern in Edo State, where staged kidnappings, often linked to financial loss or extortion, have been reported. Authorities continue to warn residents against fabricating abductions, citing the strain on police resources, public panic, and the legal consequences of such actions.

Dispatch Rider in Edo Stages Own Kidnap After Losing N1.3 Million to Gambling