The Lagos State Police Command has arrested four individuals for allegedly orchestrating a visa scam that defrauded more than 100 Nigerians of approximately ₦500 million.
The suspects — Blessing Wefsutu (27), Chineye Christian (36), Archibong Udeme Ifereke (23), and Maurine Peter (25) — were apprehended by operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). All four are said to be employees of an educational consultancy firm based in the Ago Okota area of Lagos, where the fraudulent operations reportedly took place.
According to Police Public Relations Officer CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the suspects lured victims with false promises of securing work visas to Canada and Australia.
“The case was initially reported at the Ago Okota Police Division and subsequently transferred to the SCID for further investigation,” Hundeyin said. “Preliminary findings revealed that the suspects fraudulently obtained a total of ₦500 million from over 100 unsuspecting individuals.”
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, urged the public to be vigilant when dealing with travel and recruitment agencies. “Residents must exercise due diligence to avoid falling victim to such scams,” he said. “The Command remains committed to delivering justice and safeguarding citizens from fraudulent schemes.”
Further investigations indicate the involvement of additional accomplices who are currently at large. Police say efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend all those connected to the operation.
The arrested individuals remain in custody as the investigation continues.
