The Airport Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man in connection with an alleged romance scam involving N48.5 million, targeting victims through social media platforms.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Mohammed Adeola, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos.
Adeola said the suspect was apprehended on Monday by operatives of the Anti-Fraud Unit while attempting to board a flight to Asaba, following actionable intelligence.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect became involved in fraudulent activities in 2023 after joining a syndicate that specialised in romance-related scams,” he said.
According to the spokesperson, members of the syndicate allegedly targeted victims through platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, where they created fake identities and fabricated personal narratives to gain trust.
Adeola said the suspect allegedly operated under the alias “Travis Kevin,” posing as a white American medical doctor, and reportedly established a fake banking website displaying fictitious account balances.
He explained that the suspect allegedly solicited funds from victims under the pretext of repaying them, claiming the money was needed for feeding and medical supplies after purported injuries sustained in the line of duty.
“Payments were reportedly requested through cryptocurrency channels,” Adeola said.
He disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, Mrs Olufunke Ogunbode, had ordered a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the case.
Adeola added that the commissioner also directed that all other members of the alleged fraud syndicate be identified and apprehended.
“The CP reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance stance on criminal activities within the aviation environment, describing airports as sensitive corridors that must not be exploited for unlawful purposes,” he said.
The spokesperson said the suspect would be transferred to the Interpol section for further investigation and prosecution.
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