A 24-year-old man has been arrested by the Airport Police Command in Lagos for his alleged role in a romance fraud syndicate that defrauded victims of an estimated N48.5 million (around $35,000).
The suspect was apprehended on Monday while attempting to board a flight to Asaba, the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Mohammed Adeola, confirmed in a statement. The arrest followed credible intelligence received by operatives of the Anti-Fraud Unit.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect joined the syndicate in 2023, which specialised in romance scams on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Using fabricated profiles and deceptive narratives, the group targeted unsuspecting victims.
According to the police, the suspect operated under the alias “Travis Kevin,” presenting himself as a white American medical doctor. He reportedly created a fake online banking platform displaying false account balances to deceive victims further.
Victims were allegedly asked to transfer funds under the pretext of urgent medical and feeding needs, following claims that the suspect had sustained injuries during his work. Transactions were reportedly conducted through cryptocurrency channels.
ASP Adeola stated that the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, Mrs Olufunke Ogunbode, has ordered a full-scale investigation to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
“The Commissioner reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance for criminal activities within the aviation environment, noting that airports are critical facilities that must not be used for illegal operations,” Adeola added.
The suspect is expected to be handed over to the Interpol unit for further investigation and prosecution.
