The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a suspect in connection with a transnational fraud, identity theft, and money laundering case involving a United States-based victim.
The arrest was carried out by operatives of the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to combat cyber-enabled crimes.
Police said the case was reported by an American citizen who was allegedly defrauded of $550,000 between October 2025 and January 2026.
In a coordinated operation conducted in Benin City, Edo State, between March 23 and 26, 2026, operatives tracked and arrested the suspect on March 26.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect, identified as Emwanta Eghosa Smith, allegedly carried out the fraud by impersonating government officials and other prominent figures to gain the victim’s trust.
The victim was reportedly induced to transfer funds through cryptocurrency platforms.
Further findings indicated that the proceeds of the crime were laundered through the purchase of five vehicles and an unfinished property in Benin City. Police said the assets have been secured as exhibits.
Officers also recovered counterfeit cash totalling $10,000 from the suspect.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, reiterated the Force’s commitment to tackling cybercrime, identity theft, and transnational fraud.
He added that the police would continue to strengthen collaboration with international partners to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice and victims protected.
The police advised members of the public to remain vigilant in online engagements, particularly those involving financial transactions, and to report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.