By Paul Dada
The Nigeria Police Force says its INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has nabbed a Canadian Robert Harms and another suspect for investment fraud and cybercrime.
This is according to a statement released on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi.
The statement read: “In the ongoing fight against transnational financial crimes, the Nigeria Police Force INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja has once again achieved significant breakthroughs, apprehending two high-profile suspects wanted for investment fraud and cybercrime. These arrests underscore the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to tackling both financial and cyber related threats.
“Following a meticulous investigation, INTERPOL NCB Abuja successfully apprehended Robert Harms, a Canadian national, in connection with a fraudulent investment scheme targeting Tepison Enterprises, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. The investigation was initiated following a formal petition by the company. The complainant alleged that Harms, introduced through a Polaris Bank account officer in June 2023, fraudulently induced them to invest in a fictitious Waste-to-Energy Project in Canada. Under this pretence, Tepison Enterprises transferred $210,000 to secure a fabricated “capital project bond,” with promises of a $30,000 return within four weeks, returns which never materialised.
“Investigations revealed that Harms fabricated a fraudulent Project Bridge Loan Agreement and orchestrated the transfer of funds to an account in Dubai through Allah Mai Girma Bureau de Change in Abuja. Further inquiries confirmed that Harms had no legitimate affiliation with VDQ-NRG Systems Limited, the Canadian company he falsely claimed to represent, the CEO of VDQ-NRG Systems Limited when contacted denied any knowledge of or association with Harms. Harms was apprehended by INTERPOL operatives on February 7, 2025, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, while attempting to flee to Canada. Harms admitted to receiving the funds and violating the investment agreement.
“Formal criminal charges were filed at the Federal High Court, Uyo, on April 22, 2025. Harms was arraigned on May 9, 2025, and remanded at the Uyo Custodial Centre. The case has been adjourned to May.”
