A married woman identified as Oluchi, who was previously reported missing and allegedly kidnapped in Edo State, has been found in a hotel in Delta State with a man identified as Israel Ability, according to police reports.
Oluchi, a businesswoman based at Ramat Park in Benin City, was declared missing on May 27, 2026, after her husband, Mr Tony, reported to the police that she had been abducted in the Ikpoba Hill area of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.
Following the report, a phone call was made to the family demanding ₦50 million ransom for her release, prompting relatives to begin fundraising efforts on social media. Her daughter, Anita, who lives in Canada, led the appeal, while a social group, Harmony Ladies Club, also joined in raising funds.
However, police investigations later led operatives to a hotel in Ubiaroko, Delta State, where Oluchi was found alive with a man identified as Israel Ability.
According to police sources, the phone number used to demand ransom was traced to the suspect, leading officers to the hotel where both individuals were discovered.
The Edo State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed that four persons have been arrested in connection with the incident, while investigations are ongoing.
In a viral video reacting to the development, Oluchi’s daughter expressed shock, saying the family believed they were dealing with a genuine kidnapping case and had mobilised support in good faith.
She said no ransom had been paid and that the family planned to refund all donations received, adding that investigators later informed them that the incident involved a staged abduction linked to a relationship between Oluchi and the man found with her.
The case has since sparked public concern and disappointment, with the Harmony Ladies Club distancing itself from Oluchi following the discovery.
Police say investigations are continuing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.