The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center (NPF-NCCC) has arrested three individuals for their alleged involvement in a sextortion and romance scam.
The suspects, identified as Abodunrin Rasheed, Abodunrin Tunde, and Abodunrin Rokeeb, were apprehended following a report submitted through the NPF-NCCC E-Reporting portal and an intelligence report generated by the center.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, provided details of the investigation. According to Adejobi, the suspects had engaged a Croatian national on a dating platform while posing as a woman.
“Their continuous communication extended to Instagram and WhatsApp, leading to the formation of an intimate relationship,” Adejobi explained.
“However, the Croatian national was deceived into sending nude pictures of himself. The suspects then conspired and began to blackmail him, demanding a ransom with the threat of sharing his private images with his family and friends.”
Adejobi further revealed that several items were recovered from the suspects, including six iPhones and a Lexus vehicle.
“The operatives of the NPF-NCCC conducted a thorough investigation, which led to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of exhibits related to the crime,” Adejobi stated.
Additional recovered items included one Techno phone and one Samsung phone.
Further investigation indicated that the suspects had been involved in similar cybercriminal activities, primarily targeting victims through online platforms.
The proceeds from these fraudulent acts were often received via various gift cards, including iTunes and Steam gift cards.
“The suspects will face charges in court after the completion of the investigation,” the spokesperson added.
In his statement, Adejobi also conveyed a strong warning from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, urging Nigerians to remain cautious about suspicious online interactions.
The IGP emphasized the police’s commitment to combating all forms of cybercrime, reiterating that the force will not relent in its efforts to dominate cyberspace and protect national security.
“The Nigeria Police Force is resolute in its fight against all forms of crime and criminality,” the statement continued.
“The IGP reassures Nigerians of his dedication to strengthening national security and addressing criminal activity across all sectors.”
