The Nigeria Police Force has arrested Rabiu Aliyu Salisu for allegedly scamming a US citizen, Deborah Woods, out of $597,000 through identity theft and cyber fraud.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi disclosed that Salisu impersonated an American citizen named Matthew Ramsey to execute the fraudulent scheme.
In addition, two other suspects, Saidu Adam Usman and Yusuf Umar, were taken into custody for allegedly orchestrating fraudulent activities amounting to ₦400 million.
The duo reportedly created fictitious Moniepoint accounts using pre-registered SIM cards and fake email addresses. These accounts were then distributed to accomplices across various states to manipulate Know Your Customer (KYC) verification processes, allowing them to access victims' bank verification numbers (BVNs) and personal details.
“Once the KYC process was completed, the suspects changed the passwords to secure the accounts for their foreign contractor,” Adejobi stated.
Authorities also revealed that 82 individuals were arrested in January 2025 for involvement in internet fraud and other cyber-related crimes.
In a separate case, the police arrested Idowu Smart Emmanuel following a petition against him for criminal defamation, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and spreading false information. The suspect later admitted to making false allegations.
The Nigeria Police Force has assured that all suspects will face prosecution as part of its ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime and fraud across the country.
