Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested three suspected fraudsters believed to be part of a syndicate that has been defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued in Uyo on Monday, noting that the operation followed several complaints from victims.
According to John, the suspects were apprehended on September 5, 2025, at about 1:30 p.m. from their hideout in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, after a technical intelligence-led operation launched in July on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare.
The suspects were identified as Prince Francis Albert (27) of Ikot Abasi LGA, alleged to be the gang leader; Augustine Bassey (39) of Okobo LGA, a POS operator who received fraudulent proceeds through his OPay account; and Mbetobong Godwin (35) of Ibesikpo LGA, who allegedly shared an apartment with Albert and also handled scam funds through his OPay account.
Albert, a graduate of Sokoto State Polytechnic, reportedly confessed to beginning his fraudulent activities in 2022. He allegedly scammed high-profile individuals, including politicians, military officers, and senior police officers, by impersonating different identities. He also admitted sourcing victims’ contacts from marriage invitations, obituary posters, complimentary cards, and online platforms.
The suspects are said to be cooperating with investigators in recovering SIM cards used in the scams and in tracking other syndicate members still at large.
DSP John urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
