The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended a 28-year-old man, Dauda Samuel, in connection with a fraudulent recruitment scheme and cybercrime offenses in Nasarawa State.
According to a statement released on Saturday by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the suspect was arrested by operatives of the National Cybercrime Centre following credible intelligence and numerous public complaints.
Investigations revealed that Samuel had been impersonating Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Frank Mba, on Facebook to deceive Nigerians.
He allegedly used the fake profile to advertise a bogus police recruitment drive and extorted money from unsuspecting victims by offering non-existent job placements within the force.
“The arrest stems from reports that an individual had been impersonating the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Frank Mba, on Facebook,” Adejobi stated.
“The suspect allegedly exploited this false identity to promote a fictitious Police recruitment exercise, fraudulently extorting money from unsuspecting Nigerians under the pretence of offering employment into the Nigeria Police Force.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect created and operated fake Facebook accounts bearing the name and image of the DIG in charge of Training and Development DIG Frank Mba without authorization.
“He was recently apprehended in Panda Village, Nasarawa State, and has since voluntarily confessed to the crime.
“He also provided valuable information that is aiding ongoing investigations.
“Efforts are currently underway to identify possible accomplices and trace additional digital footprints linked to the suspect’s activities through digital forensic analysis.”
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, issued a stern warning to individuals involved in cybercrime, urging them to desist or be prepared to face severe legal consequences.
“He also advices Nigerians and residents of Nigeria to be wary of individuals offering promises that seem too good to be true and take vital steps to secure their interactions in the digital space,” the statement concluded.
The police have assured the public that further investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the suspect’s operations.
