Categories: CrimesNews

Police arrest 24-year-old over alleged N48.5m romance scam in Lagos

Operatives of the Airport Police Command have arrested a 24-year-old man, Precious Onudhona, over his alleged involvement in a romance fraud scheme amounting to N48.5 million.

The suspect, who hails from Delta State, was apprehended on February 2, 2026, while attempting to board a flight from Lagos to Asaba, following what authorities described as actionable intelligence.

Confirming the arrest on Tuesday, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Adeola, said officers from the Anti-Fraud Unit intercepted the suspect as part of ongoing efforts to prevent criminal activities within the aviation sector.

According to Adeola, preliminary findings indicate that Onudhona became involved in internet fraud in 2023 after joining a syndicate known for carrying out romance scams.

Investigators said the group allegedly targeted victims through social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, using fake identities and fabricated stories to gain trust and extort money.

The suspect reportedly operated under the alias “Travis Kevin,” posing as an American medical doctor. He allegedly created a fake online banking platform showing fictitious account balances to convince victims to send money with promises of quick repayment.

Police said he claimed the funds were needed for feeding and medical supplies after sustaining injuries on duty, with payments reportedly made through cryptocurrency channels.

Reacting to the case, the Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, ordered a full-scale investigation to uncover other members of the syndicate and ensure they are brought to justice.

She reiterated that the aviation environment would not be allowed to serve as a safe haven for criminal activity.

The suspect is expected to be handed over to the Interpol Section for further investigation and prosecution.

The arrest follows a similar crackdown by the command, which recently detained another suspected internet fraudster accused of defrauding foreign victims, mostly in the United States, of about N1.25 billion and several high-end electronic devices.

LUKMAN ABDULMALIK

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