Abuja — The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has shut down an international financial scam centre operating in Agbor, Delta State, following a joint operation involving the Police National Cybercrime Centre (NPF–NCC), the UK National Crime Agency (NCA), and intelligence support from Meta.
The Force disclosed on Thursday that seven suspects were arrested for allegedly defrauding victims in Nigeria, the UK, and other countries of millions of dollars through online investment scams.
CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer, alongside CP Ifeanyi Henry Uche, Director of NPF–NCC, and Mr. Matt Mountain of the UK NCA, explained that the operation uncovered an organised syndicate based in Agbor. The suspects allegedly used fake social media accounts to impersonate cryptocurrency traders and investment experts, luring unsuspecting victims to fraudulent platforms.
Hundeyin stated that the syndicate recruited and trained young individuals in retirement investment fraud techniques and phishing s, targeting victims in the US, UK, and elsewhere. The suspects arrested include Collins Ogwuorie, Christian Ogwuorie, Gbenoba Emmanuel, Samuel Olufemi, Collins Victor, Onyeka Emenem, and Kefas Ogunbor.
Investigations revealed that Collins Ogwuorie, the alleged leader, procured around 500 social media accounts for coordinated spamming, impersonation, and victim engagement. His brother, Christian Ogwuorie, and other members were assigned roles such as account management and online engagement. The group operated a fraudulent Facebook page titled “Retirement Strategies: Real Estate and Market Insights”, posting fake testimonials to lure victims.
During the raid, authorities recovered 26 mobile phones, 42 SIM cards, and one laptop used in the fraudulent activities.
The NPF advised the public to exercise caution with online investment platforms and verify the authenticity of opportunities before committing funds. IGP Kayode Egbetokun commended the NPF–NCC and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to combating cybercrime and protecting citizens.
Meta welcomed the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in tackling evolving online scams. Sylvia Musalagani, Head of Safety Policy for Africa, the Middle East, and Türkiye, noted, “This takedown demonstrates the impact of cooperation and the importance of a whole-of-society approach.”
CP Uche reiterated the NCC’s resolve to continue disrupting cyber fraud networks, while Mr. Mountain of the UK NCA pledged continued partnership in combating cybercrime.
You May Like
Leave a comment