Lagos Taskforce nabs six scammers in daring Iyana-Ipaja bust

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested and prosecuted six suspected fraudsters for swindling residents in Iyana-Ipaja through a deceptive “lucky number” scheme promising non-existent Android phones.

The agency vowed to make Lagos uninhabitable for criminals, reinforcing its commitment to public safety.

The suspects, identified as Amaike Nelson (43), Kenneth Opuana (56), Oguntade Olusegun (63), Ogologo Obi (29), Goodluck Abel (28), and Oluwafunmilayo Adebimpe (19), were apprehended following intelligence reports.

They allegedly defrauded a 19-year-old student, Rukayat Kamilu, by luring her into a fake game.

“She was passing by when an elderly man, later identified as Oguntade Olusegun, approached her, pretending to be a bystander seeking help to pick a lucky number,” said Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, Director of Public Affairs for the Taskforce.

After losing the game, Kamilu’s phone was seized, and the suspects demanded ₦100,000 for its return before fleeing. Swift Taskforce action led to their arrest.

During the operation, authorities recovered several empty Android phone packaging, believed to be props used to deceive victims.

The suspects faced a five-count charge of gambling, extortion, stealing, and conspiracy in court, where they pleaded guilty. They have been remanded in a correctional facility, with the case adjourned to August 7, 2025.

CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Taskforce, who led the operation, issued a stern warning to fraudsters.

“The agency will not tolerate criminal behaviour and is committed to making Lagos State uninhabitable for criminal elements,” he declared, urging perpetrators to desist or face consequences.

The operation aligns with the Taskforce’s mandate to curb crimes threatening residents’ safety and financial security, especially amid economic challenges.

The agency encourages citizens to report suspicious activities through its “See Something, Say Something” initiative, reinforcing its resolve to maintain law and order across Lagos State.