The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the return of $23,000 recovered from a Nigerian man accused of operating an international online romance scam. The money has been handed over to the victim, a resident of the Cayman Islands, following successful investigations by the police in collaboration with international partners.
The confirmation was made in a statement issued on Friday by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, Mr Benjamin Hundeyin. According to the statement, the funds were recovered by the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja.
The recovery followed a formal request from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, which asked for Nigeria’s assistance in investigating the activities of a suspect identified as Achufusi Obioma Ikenna, a Nigerian national.
Mr Hundeyin explained that operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja carried out covert and intelligence-driven investigations after receiving the request. These investigations led to the arrest of the suspect and the recovery of the stolen funds.
According to the police, the $23,000 was part of money obtained through an online romance scam. In such scams, criminals create fake identities on social media or dating platforms to deceive victims, build emotional relationships, and later persuade them to send money.
Romance scams have become a growing problem worldwide, with victims often losing large sums of money to fraudsters who operate across borders. Many of these crimes are difficult to investigate because the suspects and victims are usually in different countries.
The Nigeria Police said the successful recovery of the funds shows the importance of international cooperation in tackling cybercrime and online fraud.
After the recovery, the police said all legal and administrative procedures required by law were followed. The recovered money was then officially handed over to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service through the British High Commission in Abuja.
The British High Commission was represented at the handover by Mr Shaun McLeary, who received the funds on behalf of the Cayman Islands authorities. The money will be transmitted to the victim in the Cayman Islands.
The police did not disclose details about the victim for security and privacy reasons.
Mr Hundeyin said the suspect, Achufusi Obioma Ikenna, will be charged to court after the conclusion of ongoing investigations. He added that the police are still gathering evidence to ensure a strong case is presented in court.
The Force Public Relations Officer described the recovery and return of the funds as further proof of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to fighting cybercrime and ensuring justice for victims, both within and outside the country.
“The Force remains resolute in ensuring that proceeds of crime are traced, recovered and returned to victims, while perpetrators are identified and brought to justice in accordance with the law and international best practices,” the statement said.
The case highlights Nigeria’s role in global efforts to combat cybercrime, especially at a time when the country continues to battle a negative image linked to internet fraud and online scams.
Over the years, Nigerian authorities have faced criticism from the international community over the involvement of some Nigerians in cybercrime, including romance scams, identity theft, and online financial fraud. These activities have affected the country’s reputation and raised concerns among foreign governments.
However, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies have stepped up efforts to address the problem through arrests, prosecutions, and cooperation with international law enforcement agencies.
INTERPOL NCB Abuja plays a key role in these efforts by serving as a link between Nigeria and other countries in the fight against transnational crime. The bureau works closely with foreign police services to track suspects, share intelligence, and recover stolen assets.
The successful handling of the romance scam case is expected to strengthen trust between Nigeria and its international partners, especially in Europe, North America, and the Caribbean.
Cybercrime analysts warn that romance scams continue to rise due to increased internet use and social media activity. Many victims are emotionally vulnerable and may not realize they are being deceived until they have lost significant amounts of money.
They advise members of the public to be cautious when dealing with people they meet online, especially those who ask for money, gifts, or personal financial information.
The Nigeria Police Force has repeatedly urged Nigerians to avoid engaging in internet fraud and warned that offenders will be tracked and prosecuted, regardless of where their victims are located.
The police have also called on parents, schools, and religious leaders to help educate young people about the dangers and consequences of cybercrime.
For the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, the recovery of the $23,000 represents a successful outcome in a case that crossed international borders. The service had earlier reached out to Nigeria for help after tracing the scam to the country.
The case shows how modern crime often goes beyond national boundaries and why cooperation among law enforcement agencies is essential.
