Police Arrest Suspect in $550,000 Fraud Case

The Nigeria Police Force, through its Abuja office, apprehended Emwanta Eghosa Smith in connection with an alleged fraud and identity theft case involving a victim from the United States. The fraud, amounting to $550,000, occurred between October 2025 and January 2026.

The police acted on credible intelligence and coordinated operations from March 23 to 26, 2026, which culminated in Smith's arrest on March 26. Preliminary investigations revealed that Smith allegedly impersonated prominent government officials and notable public figures to gain the victim's trust, inducing her to transfer funds via cryptocurrency platforms.

Further investigations indicated that the proceeds from the crime were laundered to purchase five vehicles and unfinished properties in Benin City. The police recovered counterfeit currency amounting to $10,000 during the operation.

Inspector General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to tackle cyber-enabled financial crimes and identity theft, urging the public to remain vigilant in online interactions.