The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation of a transnational fraud, identity theft, and money laundering case involving a United States-based victim, in line with the ongoing drive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, against cyber-enabled crimes.

The case was reported by an American female citizen who was defrauded of Five Hundred and Fifty Thousand United States Dollars ($550,000) between October 2025 and January 2026.

In a well-coordinated operation conducted in Benin City, Edo State, between 23rd and 26th March 2026, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja, acting on credible intelligence, successfully tracked and arrested the suspect on 26th March 2026.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect, Emwanta Eghosa Smith ‘M’, of Uselu, Edo State, perpetrated the fraud by impersonating prominent government officials and other notable public figures to gain the trust of the victim, who was subsequently induced to transfer funds through cryptocurrency platforms. Further findings indicate that the proceeds of the crime were laundered through the acquisition of five vehicles and an unfinished property in Benin City, all of which have been secured as exhibits. Additionally, counterfeit Ten Thousand United States Dollars ($10,000) was recovered from the suspect.

IGP Tunji Disu reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to tackling cyber-enabled financial crimes, identity theft, and transnational fraud, while strengthening collaboration with international partners to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and victims are protected.

Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant and exercise caution in online engagements, particularly those involving financial transactions, and to promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.