The total sum of $550,000 swindled from a United States-based victim has led to the arrest of a suspected fraudster by the Nigeria Police Force.
Operatives of INTERPOL National Central Bureau, NCB Abuja apprehended the suspect, Emwanta Eghosa Smith, in Benin City, Edo State, South-South Nigeria last Thursday March 26, 2026. This followed a coordinated operation carried out between March 23 and 26.
The case, reported by an American female citizen, involved a sophisticated scheme in which the suspect allegedly impersonated prominent government officials and other notable public figures to gain the victim’s trust and induce transfers through cryptocurrency platforms between October 2025 and January 2026.
Police investigations further revealed that proceeds of the crime were laundered through the acquisition of five vehicles and an unfinished property in Benin City, all of which have been secured as exhibits. Counterfeit currency in $10,000 was also recovered from the suspect.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to combating cyber-enabled financial crimes and strengthening collaboration with international partners to ensure offenders are brought to justice.
The Police also advised members of the public to remain vigilant in online engagements, especially those involving financial transactions, and to promptly report suspicious activities.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
