The Rivers State Police have successfully dismantled a fraudulent operation promising fake job opportunities in the oil and gas sector. Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the scam, which deceived victims into paying significant sums of money for non-existent employment.15
On August 29, 2024, the Rivers State Police received crucial information about a possible hostage situation at a compound in Igwuruta. Acting on this tip-off, officers from the Octopus strike force conducted a raid and arrested Chukwudi Okoli, who was masquerading as an employee of a fake company named Qjoseansel International Global Limited.
During the raid, police rescued 15 victims who had been lured into the scam. These victims, 13 men and 2 women, had paid amounts ranging from NGN 650,000 to NGN 850,000 each, under the false assurance that they would secure high-paying jobs in the oil and gas industry.
The fraudulent scheme operated by contacting potential victims through random phone numbers. The scammers would offer enticing job opportunities and invite the victims to Port Harcourt for a fake interview process. Once there, the victims were extorted for additional funds and held captive. They were subjected to fake training sessions designed to prepare them to recruit others into the scam, promising them weekly payments in US Dollars.
In addition to arresting the suspects, the police seized various items from the scammers’ office. These included phones, laptops, televisions, generators, industrial fans, and office furniture. The sophisticated setup was designed to enhance the illusion of legitimacy and keep the victims isolated from the outside world.
The suspects are currently in police custody, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are intensifying their efforts to apprehend other members of the criminal syndicate involved in this elaborate scam.
This case highlights the importance of vigilance and due diligence when seeking job opportunities. The Rivers State Police urge the public to verify job offers and avoid sharing personal information or making payments without thorough verification.
For those who suspect they might be targeted by similar scams, the police encourage immediate reporting to prevent further victimization and to aid in the swift apprehension of fraudsters.
