Nigeria Police nab suspect after US citizen defrauded of $550,000 in cyber fraud case

Cityscope, Crime Diary

ABUJA, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — The Nigeria Police Force, through INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, has achieved a breakthrough in the investigation of a transnational fraud, identity theft, and money laundering case involving a United States-based victim. The move aligns with Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu’s drive against cyber-enabled crimes.

The case was reported by an American woman who was defrauded of US$550,000 between October 2025 and January 2026. According to Force Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Okon Placid, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja, acting on credible intelligence, tracked and arrested the suspect in Benin City, Edo State, during a coordinated operation between 23 and 26 March 2026.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect, Emwanta Eghosa Smith of Uselu, Edo State, impersonated senior government officials and public figures to gain the victim’s trust, inducing her to transfer funds via cryptocurrency platforms. The proceeds were laundered through the purchase of five vehicles and an unfinished property in Benin City, all secured as exhibits. Police also recovered counterfeit US$10,000 from the suspect.

Inspector-General Disu reiterated the Force’s commitment to tackling cyber-enabled financial crimes and strengthening collaboration with international partners to ensure perpetrators face justice. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant in online engagements, particularly financial transactions, and to report suspicious activities promptly.