Airport police arrest 24-year-old over N48.5m romance fraud in Lagos
Man Arrested for Alleged Romance Fraud at Airport
LAGOS — A 24-year-old man has been apprehended by the Airport Police Command for his suspected involvement in a significant romance fraud scheme, reportedly totaling approximately N48.5 million (around $35,000).
The arrest occurred Monday as the suspect attempted to board a flight to Asaba, according to Assistant Superintendent of Police Mohammed Adeola, the command’s spokesperson. Adeola stated that the arrest was made by the Anti-Fraud Unit based on credible intelligence.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect joined a fraud syndicate in 2023, specializing in romance scams that exploited unsuspecting individuals through social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. The suspect allegedly operated under the alias “Travis Kevin,” presenting himself as a white American medical doctor.
Authorities claim the suspect created a fraudulent online banking platform to display false account balances, further misleading victims. Reports suggest he solicited funds from targets under the pretense of needing urgent financial assistance for food and medical supplies, often claiming to have been injured in the line of duty, with assurances of repayment.
The investigation revealed that the suspect facilitated these transactions through cryptocurrency channels.
Commissioner of Police for the Airport Command, Mrs. Olufunke Ogunbode, has instructed a comprehensive probe into the case and directed operatives to locate and apprehend additional members of the syndicate.
“The Commissioner reiterated the command’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy towards criminal activities in the aviation sector, emphasizing that airports must not serve as venues for illegal operations,” Adeola noted.
The suspect is expected to be transferred to the Interpol unit for further investigation and potential prosecution.
