Nigeria Police Arrest Suspect in N5.7 Million Cyber Fraud Case

ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — The Nigeria Police Force, National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC) arrested Aliyu Muhammed, 27, on Thursday in connection with a cyber fraud scheme involving N5.7 million. The arrest took place in Katsina state following a petition from a university donor based in Akwa Ibom state who lost the funds after making payments to a fraudulent Facebook page.

Muhammed was taken into custody as part of an ongoing investigation into online financial crimes targeting Nigerian citizens. The NPF-NCCC announced the development during a press briefing in Abuja, confirming that the suspect is currently in police custody pending further inquiries. Authorities stated that Muhammed is suspected of orchestrating the fraudulent transaction that resulted in the donor's financial loss.

The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, reported the incident after discovering that the Facebook page used to solicit donations was not affiliated with any legitimate educational institution. The donor had transferred the N5.7 million believing the funds would support university programs, but the money was instead diverted through the fraudulent scheme.

Police officials emphasized that the arrest demonstrates the force's commitment to combating cyber-enabled financial crimes. The NPF-NCCC has been actively pursuing cases involving social media platforms used to facilitate scams targeting individuals and organizations across Nigeria.

Investigators are currently examining digital evidence related to the case, including transaction records and communications between the suspect and the victim. Authorities have not yet disclosed the full extent of Muhammed's involvement or whether other individuals were implicated in the scheme.

The case highlights growing concerns about online fraud targeting charitable contributions and educational donations. Cyber security experts have warned that scammers increasingly use social media platforms to exploit public goodwill and financial generosity.

Muhammed is expected to appear in court in the coming days to face charges related to the cyber fraud. The NPF-NCCC has urged the public to exercise caution when making online payments and to verify the legitimacy of any organization before transferring funds.

Police have not specified whether additional arrests are anticipated or if the full amount of the stolen funds has been recovered. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to trace the movement of the money and identify any accomplices who may have assisted in the scheme.

The NPF-NCCC stated that it continues to monitor similar cases and will take necessary legal action against all individuals involved in cyber fraud activities. The force has also called for increased public awareness to prevent future incidents of online financial exploitation.