AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
FRA
GER
ESP
ITA
NLD
PRT
SWE
GRC
IND
POL
BRA
ZAF
RUS
CHN
UAE
Highlights
- 792 people were arrested in Nigeria for involvement in a massive crypto-romance scam.
- The fraud operation targeted victims from the Americas and Europe using social media platforms.
- Nigerian authorities collaborated with international partners to dismantle the operation.
In a significant crackdown on fraudulent activities, Nigerian authorities arrested 792 individuals suspected of operating a crypto-romance scam. The suspects were detained during a raid on December 10 at the Big Leaf Building in Lagos, a luxury seven-story complex believed to be a hub for criminal activities.
The Scam Operation
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed that the fraudsters had established a call center within the building, primarily targeting individuals from the Americas and Europe. Using social media platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram, the scammers initiated contact with victims, employing romantic tactics to build trust. Once they gained their victims’ confidence, they presented fake cryptocurrency investment opportunities, convincing them to transfer funds for non-existent projects.
The operation had a complex structure, with foreign nationals—148 Chinese and 40 Filipino citizens—playing a key role in executing the scam. Nigerian accomplices were recruited to engage potential victims online, utilizing phishing methods to deceive individuals. Once a target was successfully lured, the foreign operators took over the task of extracting funds from the victims, ensuring the scam's smooth operation.
A Global Reach and Collaborative Effort
The scam targeted individuals across several regions, with a heavy focus on countries such as the United States, Canada, Mexico, and various European nations. According to EFCC spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren, the foreign individuals coordinated the fraudulent activities while Nigerian operatives recruited and engaged the victims, further complicating the web of deception.
The EFCC’s investigation also extended to potential connections with organized crime, as the scale and reach of the scam suggested a more extensive network. In addition to the arrests, the authorities seized computers, phones, and vehicles during the raid, which could provide crucial evidence to dismantle the operation completely.
Combating Crypto Fraud
The scam highlights the growing concerns surrounding cryptocurrency-related fraud, as criminals increasingly exploit digital currencies to deceive unsuspecting individuals. With the rise of social media and messaging apps, scammers have found new ways to reach a wider audience, using sophisticated tactics to manipulate victims emotionally and financially.
The EFCC has pledged to work closely with international partners to combat such scams and strengthen cybersecurity measures. This operation serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in the digital space, where scams continue to evolve and impact individuals across the globe.
The arrest of those involved in this crypto-romance scam represents a significant victory for authorities in their fight against online fraud. With further investigations underway, it is likely that more individuals and connections will be uncovered, shedding light on the extent of this operation and its international reach.