The Nigeria Police Force has arrested two individuals, Saidu Adam Usman and Yusuf Umar, for allegedly creating and distributing compromised financial accounts used in fraudulent transactions exceeding ₦400 million.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Adam and Umar are among 82 suspects apprehended in January for various financial and cyber-related crimes, including internet fraud, romance scams, identity theft, and cryptocurrency fraud.
Adejobi stated that through the National Cybercrime Centre (NCCC), the police also arrested 32 suspects nationwide in a major crackdown on cybercrime. He explained that Adam and Umar allegedly created Moniepoint profiles using pre-registered SIM cards and email addresses, which were then distributed to accomplices for fraudulent KYC verification. They reportedly obtained Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs) and other personal details to facilitate financial fraud.
Additionally, the police arrested one Rabiu Aliyu Salisu, also known as Rabo, for defrauding an American citizen of $597,000.
Salisu allegedly assumed a false identity as “Matthew Ramsey” to swindle Deborah Woods, an American national, in a computer-related fraud and money laundering scheme.
Another suspect, Idowu Smart Emmanuel, was also arrested following a petition on criminal defamation, cyberstalking, and falsehood. The police said he admitted to making false allegations.
Adejobi emphasized that these operations reflect the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment under the leadership of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun to tackling cybercrime and restoring the country’s reputation.
He warned against the misuse of social media for fraud, defamation, and cyberstalking, urging the public to verify online transactions carefully before making financial commitments.
