Police Uncover N500m Visa Scam, Apprehend Four in Lagos
Lagos — The Lagos State Police Command has busted a visa scam syndicate operating out of an educational consultancy in Ago Okota, resulting in the arrest of four suspects and the exposure of a fraud scheme worth N500 million.
The suspects, aged between 23 and 36, were apprehended by operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) after the case was transferred from the Ago Okota Division for deeper investigation.
Hundreds of Victims Defrauded
According to the command spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the arrested individuals were employees of an educational consultancy firm that falsely promised to secure Canadian and Australian work visas for over 100 unsuspecting Nigerians.
“They fraudulently obtained more than N500 million from victims who believed they were paying for legitimate overseas work opportunities,” Hundeyin said.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the fraudulent scheme had more accomplices who are currently at large. Police say efforts are underway to track down and arrest all members of the syndicate.
Police Warn Nigerians: Verify Agencies Before Making Payments
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, has issued a strong warning to the public against falling prey to unverified visa agents or travel consultancies.
“We urge Nigerians to verify the authenticity of any travel or recruitment agency before parting with money for visa services,” said Jimoh.
He reiterated the commitment of the Lagos Police Command to protect residents from fraudulent operations and assured that the arrested suspects will face full prosecution once investigations are concluded.
