Nigeria – February 5, 2026 – The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismantled an international online investment scam syndicate operating in Agbor, Delta State, following a joint operation with the United Kingdom National Crime Agency (NCA) and intelligence support from Meta.
The NPF disclosed on Thursday that seven suspects were arrested for allegedly defrauding victims across Nigeria, the UK, and other countries of millions of dollars through fraudulent online investment schemes.
According to Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, and the Director of the Police National Cybercrime Centre (NPF–NCC), CP Ifeanyi Henry Uche, the suspects impersonated reputable cryptocurrency traders and investment experts via fake social media accounts to lure unsuspecting victims.
“The network recruited young individuals and trained them in retirement investment fraud techniques and phishing attacks, targeting victims in the United States, the UK, and beyond,” Hundeyin said.
The arrested suspects include Collins Ogwuorie, Christian Ogwuorie, Gbenoba Emmanuel, Samuel Olufemi, Collins Victor, Onyeka Emenem, and Kefas Ogunbor. Preliminary investigations revealed that Collins Ogwuorie, a repeat offender, led the syndicate, managing over 500 social media accounts used for mass spamming, impersonation, and engagement with victims.
The syndicate operated a fraudulent Facebook group titled “Retirement Strategies: Real Estate and Market Insights,” where fake testimonials were posted to convince victims to invest in non-existent opportunities.
During the operation, authorities seized 26 mobile phones, 42 SIM cards, and a laptop, all suspected to have been used in executing the scams.
CSP Uche stressed that investigations are ongoing and advised the public to verify online investment platforms before committing funds. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, commended the NPF–NCC and its director for the successful operation, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to protecting citizens from online financial exploitation.
Meta also welcomed the collaboration, with Sylvia Musalagani, Head of Safety Policy for Africa, the Middle East, and Türkiye, highlighting that organised cybercrime requires coordinated global efforts to dismantle networks targeting internet users.
UK NCA representative, Mr. Matt Mountain, praised the Nigeria Police for its proactive approach and pledged continued partnership to combat cyber fraud.
The operation marks a significant step in Nigeria’s fight against cybercrime and reinforces the NPF’s resolve to safeguard citizens’ investments from online scams