Two individuals have been arrested by the Ogun State Police Command for allegedly using fraudulent bank transfers to swindle a local trader out of clothing items worth ₦220,000. The suspects, identified as Opeyemi Ibrahim and Dimeji Bakare, were apprehended in Oru-Ijebu, Ijebu North Local Government Area.
The police described the suspects as habitual fraudsters, one of whom had been implicated in a similar scam in 2023. According to CSP Omolola Odutola, the command’s spokesperson, their latest scheme came to light on January 13, 2025, following a report by their victim, Christopher Chukwuma.
How It Happened
Chukwuma, a trader in Oru-Ijebu, had unknowingly fallen victim to a common but sophisticated fraud scheme. The suspects reportedly visited his shop and purchased a significant quantity of clothing. Payment, however, was made via a fake bank transfer, a tactic designed to trick sellers into believing money had been deposited into their accounts.
Speaking about the incident, Odutola explained, “The suspects, Opeyemi Ibrahim and Dimeji Bakare, used fake bank transfer alerts to fraudulently obtain goods worth ₦220,000. Upon realizing the fraud, the victim promptly alerted the police.”
The duo’s tactics unraveled when Chukwuma failed to receive the credited amount in his account after delivering the goods. Acting swiftly, the Oru-Ijebu Divisional Police Officer coordinated the arrest of the suspects before they could evade justice.
A Repeat Offender
Further investigations revealed that this was not the first time one of the suspects had been involved in such a crime. In 2023, Ibrahim allegedly used a similar fake bank transfer method to purchase a generator worth ₦140,000 from another unsuspecting trader.
“This is not an isolated case,” Odutola noted. “One of the suspects, Ibrahim, was previously linked to another case of fraud involving fake transfers. These criminals exploit technology and unsuspecting traders to carry out their fraudulent activities.”
The police have seized exhibits linked to the crime, including the clothing obtained through the fake transaction.
Fake Bank Transfers: A Growing Menace
Fraud involving fake bank transfers has become a significant concern for businesses in Nigeria. Criminals often generate fraudulent transaction alerts that appear genuine to recipients, tricking them into releasing goods or services.
Experts attribute the rise of such scams to inadequate digital literacy and the ease of accessing fraudulent software. Traders are advised to verify bank transfers by confirming transaction notifications directly with their banks before handing over goods.
Odutola stressed the importance of vigilance, saying, “Business owners must exercise caution and double-check transactions. Fraudsters are becoming more innovative, and the public must stay ahead of their schemes.”
Consequences Await
The suspects are currently in police custody and face charges of fraud and obtaining goods under false pretenses. If convicted, they could face severe penalties under Nigeria’s Criminal Code, which prescribes imprisonment for fraud-related offenses.
“The Ogun State Police Command is committed to ensuring that justice is served,” Odutola added. “The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.”
Community Reaction
Residents of Ijebu North have praised the police for their swift response, emphasizing the need for justice to deter similar crimes in the future.
A local trader, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed concern over the growing trend of such fraudulent activities. “We’re constantly at risk of losing our livelihoods to these fraudsters. The government and the police need to do more to protect small businesses,” he said.
Broader Implications
As digital transactions become more common, the challenge of securing payment systems against fraud has grown more urgent. Despite technological advancements, criminals are finding new ways to exploit loopholes in the system.
Industry experts recommend stricter regulations for financial platforms to reduce the ease of creating fake alerts. Moreover, public awareness campaigns could play a critical role in educating citizens about the dangers of digital fraud.
