Nigerian posing as U.S man arrested for N48m romance scam in Lagos

By Deborah Akpede

Police operatives have arrested a 24-year-old Nigeria man allegedly posing as “Travis Kevin,” a white American medical doctor in connection with an alleged large-scale romance fraud scheme involving N48.5 million (about 35,000 dollars).

The fake Travis Kevin while attempting to board a flight to Asaba from Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos.

The suspect was arrested by by operatives of the Anti-Fraud Unit following actionable intelligence, Airport command’s spokesperson, ASP Mohammed Adeola said in a statement.

According to the statement, investigations revealed that the suspect became involved in fraudulent activities in 2023 after joining a syndicate that specialised in romance-related scams.

He said the suspect targeted his victims through social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, where his syndicate created false identities and deceptive narratives to deceive people.

Adeola said the suspect allegedly posed as “Travis Kevin,” a white American medical doctor, and established a fake banking website displaying fictitious account balances.

He said the suspect allegedly solicited funds from victims under the guise of repaying them promptly, claiming the money was needed for feeding and medical supplies after purported injuries sustained in the line of duty.

“Payments were reportedly requested through cryptocurrency,” the spokesperson said.

According to Adeola, the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, Mrs Olufunke Ogunbode, has ordered a thorough and comprehensive investigation to ensure justice is served.

He said the CP also directed that all other members of the fraud syndicate be identified and apprehended.

“The CP emphasised the command’s zero-tolerance stance on criminal activities within the aviation sector, describing airports as sensitive corridors that must not be exploited for unlawful purposes,” he said.

Adeola added that the suspect would be transferred to the Interpol section for further investigation and prosecution.

(NAN)