Police arrest two for m8rder and arson as chieftaincy crisis rocks Cross River community
A 24-year-old man has been arrested in Lagos State for allegedly posing as an American medical doctor to carry out an elaborate romance scam that led to the defrauding of unsuspecting victims of N48.5 million.
The suspect was apprehended by operatives of the Nigeria Police following intelligence reports and complaints from victims who said they were deceived through online relationships. According to police sources, the man created fake profiles on social media and dating platforms where he introduced himself as a U.S.-based doctor working with an international medical organisation.
Investigators said the suspect gained the trust of his victims by engaging them in long online conversations and professing love and intentions of marriage. He reportedly told them emotional stories about his supposed work abroad and claimed he was planning to relocate to Nigeria or bring them overseas.
Police revealed that once trust was established, the suspect began requesting money for various fabricated reasons, including medical emergencies, travel arrangements, business investments, and legal documentation. Victims were persuaded to send money through bank transfers and online payment platforms.
Authorities said the total amount allegedly obtained through the scam was N48.5 million. The funds were reportedly shared across multiple accounts controlled by the suspect to avoid detection.
During the arrest, officers recovered mobile phones, SIM cards, and electronic devices believed to have been used in carrying out the fraud. Preliminary investigations showed that the suspect had been operating the scheme for several months before he was tracked and arrested.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed that the suspect would be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations. Officials warned members of the public to be cautious when engaging in online relationships, especially with individuals who request money or claim to be foreign professionals.
Police also advised Nigerians and foreign nationals to verify the identity of people they meet online and to report suspicious activities promptly.
The arrest highlights the growing concern over romance scams, which have become a common form of cybercrime, targeting individuals seeking companionship through social media and dating platforms. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to curb such crimes and bring perpetrators to justice.
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