The Nigerian Police Force has confirmed the arrest of Linus Williams, a popular social media influencer popularly known as BLord.
Williams, commonly referred to as a crypto billionaire by his fans, frequently flaunts his luxurious lifestyle on social media platforms.
BLord’s arrest has garnered widespread attention due to his high-profile persona and the ostentatious nature of his online presence.
Known for his extravagant spending and lavish lifestyle, Williams has been a controversial figure, often showcasing his wealth through posts featuring expensive cars, designer clothes, and luxurious vacations.
On Tuesday, the Nigerian Police Force confirmed Williams’ arrest saying he was arrested for cryptocurrency fraud, aiding internet fraud, computer-related fraud, terrorism funding, and non-compliance with regulatory frameworks.
Police Force spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a brief press statement, said the influencer was under the joint investigations of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and the Nigerian Police Force National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC).
Both units are investigating several complaints lodged against BLord and his associated companies, including BLord Group, BLord Real Estate Ltd, BLord Jetpaye Limited, and Billpoint Technology.
The police spokesperson said, “We have him with us. The FCID (NPF-NCCC) is investigating complaints lodged against Blord Group, Blord Real Estate Ltd, Blord Jetpaye Limited, and Billpoint Technology.
“These offences include allegations of cryptocurrency fraud, aiding internet fraud, computer-related fraud, terrorism funding, and non-compliance with regulatory frameworks.
“We will do due diligence in our investigation. Our cyberspace must be safe and secure by all means. We are committed to achieving that.”
In a July 2021 story published by BusinessDay, Williams announced the diversification of his business from core Bitcoin trading and luxury retail to real estate.
“Real estate is a natural progression for us,” he explained. “Just as we made BLord Bitcoin a household name, we are going to build BLord Real Estate on a solid foundation.”
“Our success in Bitcoin trading wasn’t by chance. It was built on strong principles. We make our address known and I keep my Whatsapp number open, making it nearly impossible for anyone to accuse BLord of scamming. This trust is what we bring to every venture.”
Williams told the interviewer that despite his rapid ascent in the business world, he remained grounded.
He said, “I don’t do business to impress anyone or to compete. I promised my mother I would work hard and be successful, and she is the only one I am out to impress.”
