NSCDC arrests 3 over alleged N7m internet fraud

Operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), operating in Edo State, have apprehended three individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud amounting to N7 million within the region. The suspects, named Peter Odion, 21; Anthony Ernest, 20; and Destiny Saturday, 20, all hailing from Ebele in Igueben Local Government Area, are accused of defrauding a Nigerian resident residing in Italy.

Edo State NSCDC Commandant, Akintayo Saidi Ayinla, disclosed that the suspects allegedly conned their victim by using a female photograph to initiate contact on Facebook. It was alleged that one of the suspects, Destiny, impersonated a female spiritual healer and claimed to possess the power to make the victim wealthy through mystical means.

The victim, persuaded by these claims, reportedly made multiple payments to Destiny for the supposed spiritual services before realizing he had fallen victim to a scam. Upon learning of the incident, one Barrister Oni Isibor filed a petition with the NSCDC on behalf of the victim, seeking an investigation into the alleged fraud.

Upon receiving this petition, NSCDC operatives, leveraging advanced technology and intelligence-driven tracking, were able to apprehend the three suspects. The commandant mentioned that the suspects have reportedly admitted to their wrongdoing and will face court proceedings following the completion of the investigation.