The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) has arrested Rabiu Aliyu Salisu, also known as Rabo, for his involvement in a massive online fraud scheme.
The 27-year-old suspect from Kogi State allegedly defrauded an elderly American woman, Deborah Woods, of a staggering $597,000 through an online romance scam.
How the Fraud Was Executed
Police investigations revealed that Salisu posed as an American citizen named Matthew Ramsey, deceiving his victim into sending large sums of money.
When paraded in Abuja on Thursday, Salisu admitted to receiving $200,000 from the scam, which he used to purchase a ₦65 million three-bedroom terrace.
Luxury Cars & Gadgets Seized
Authorities searched Salisu’s residence and recovered:
✔ Multiple electronic devices used for online fraud
✔ Eight BMW cars suspected to be proceeds of crime
Massive International Scam Uncovered
In a related operation, police busted a $4 million fraud syndicate targeting international oil trading firms. Key suspects include:
✔ Dr. David Emmanuel Udensik (aka Dr. Jacob Bello) – accused of forging Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) documents to scam traders of $610,000
✔ Engr. Isaac Jerome Oyakhilome – CEO of Marine Gold Oil Refineries Ltd., who allegedly facilitated a $1.15 million crude oil scam
During the raid, police confiscated:
✔ ₦55 million in cash (~$33,400)
✔ Assets worth ₦370 million
✔ A Toyota Camry
Over 80 Suspects Arrested in January Alone
The NPF-NCCC and Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Lagos have collectively arrested 84 fraud suspects in January 2025.
Force PRO ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi credited the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, for intensifying efforts to combat cybercrime and restore Nigeria’s reputation on the FATF Grey List.
What Happens Next?
Salisu and other arrested fraudsters are expected to face multiple charges, including identity theft, computer fraud, and money laundering.
Do You Think Online Fraud Can Be Stopped in Nigeria?
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