The Airport Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man suspected of orchestrating a massive romance fraud scheme involving N48.5 million (around $35,000). ASP Mohammed Adeola, the command’s spokesperson, confirmed the arrest, which occurred on Monday as the suspect attempted to board a flight to Asaba.
According to Adeola, operatives of the Anti-Fraud Unit acted on actionable intelligence to apprehend the suspect. Preliminary investigations revealed that he joined a syndicate specialising in romance scams in 2023, targeting victims through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram using fake identities and fabricated stories.
The suspect reportedly posed as “Travis Kevin,” a white American medical doctor, and even set up a fake banking website displaying fictitious account balances. Victims were allegedly asked to make payments through cryptocurrency, under the pretense that the funds were needed for medical care and feeding following supposed injuries sustained on duty.
Commissioner of Police for the Airport Command, Mrs. Olufunke Ogunbode, has directed a thorough investigation to ensure justice and to identify other members of the fraud syndicate. She emphasised the command’s zero-tolerance policy toward criminal activities in aviation, calling airports sensitive corridors that must not be exploited for illegal purposes.
ASP Adeola added that the suspect will be transferred to the Interpol section for further investigation and prosecution, as authorities work to dismantle the entire syndicate and safeguard passengers from such scams in the future.
