The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a significant breakthrough in its fight against cyber-enabled crimes with the arrest of a suspect linked to the defrauding of an American woman of $550,000.

In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, Deputy Commissioner of Police. Anthony Okon, acting through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau Abuja, police operatives arrested Emwanta Smith, a male resident of Uselu in Benin City, Edo State, on March 26, 2026.

The operation, which took place between March 23 and 26, 2026, was based on credible intelligence and followed a formal complaint by the victim, an American female citizen.

According to the police, the victim was defrauded of Five Hundred and Fifty Thousand United States Dollars ($550,000) between October 2025 and January 2026.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly impersonated prominent government officials and other notable public figures to gain the trust of the victim.

“He then induced her to transfer funds through cryptocurrency platforms. Further probes showed that proceeds from the crime were laundered through the acquisition of five vehicles and an unfinished property in Benin City.

“These items have been secured as exhibits. Operatives also recovered counterfeit $10,000 (Ten Thousand United States Dollars) from the suspect,” the statement read.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to tackling cyber-enabled financial crimes, identity theft, and transnational fraud.

He emphasised the strengthening of collaboration with international partners, particularly INTERPOL, to bring perpetrators to justice and safeguard victims.

“Cybercrime remains a major threat not only to individuals but also to national security and international relations. We will continue to work closely with our global partners to dismantle these criminal networks,” the IG stated.

The force urged members of the public to remain vigilant, especially when engaging in online transactions.

Citizens were advised to exercise caution when dealing with unsolicited requests involving money, government officials, or investment opportunities, and to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or relevant law enforcement agencies promptly.

This arrest is part of the ongoing drive by the current police leadership to curb the rising incidents of cyber fraud, which often target victims abroad through sophisticated social engineering tactics.

The suspect is expected to be arraigned in court as soon as investigations are concluded.