The Nigeria Police Force has arrested Dauda Samuel, a 28-year-old man, for allegedly impersonating a senior police officer and using a fake online recruitment exercise to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
According to a press release from ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, the arrest was made by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) following credible intelligence and multiple public complaints.
Samuel is accused of impersonating Deputy Inspector-General of Police Frank Mba on Facebook, where he operated fake accounts bearing the DIG’s name and photographs. Through these accounts, he allegedly lured victims into a Nigeria Police recruitment scam, promising them job placements in exchange for money.
The suspect was apprehended in Panda Village, Nasarawa State, and has reportedly confessed to the crime. He also provided valuable information to assist ongoing investigations.
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“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect created and operated fake Facebook accounts using the name and image of DIG Frank Mba without authorization,” the police said.
Efforts are underway to track down other individuals who may have been working with Samuel and to trace additional digital evidence linked to the Nigeria Police recruitment scam. Forensic analysis is ongoing to uncover the full extent of the cyber fraud network.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, warned all individuals engaging in cybercrime to desist immediately or face the full wrath of the law. He also cautioned the public against falling for fraudulent online schemes, especially those that promise jobs or opportunities that seem too good to be true.
“We urge Nigerians to remain alert and safeguard their personal information when interacting online,” the statement read.
The police have reiterated their commitment to fighting cybercrime and protecting citizens from scams such as the Nigeria Police recruitment scam, which continues to target desperate job seekers.
Investigations into the case are ongoing.
