The Airport Police Command in Lagos has arrested a 24-year-old man for allegedly defrauding victims of about N48.5 million (around $35,000) through an online romance scam. The arrest took place on Monday as the suspect tried to board a flight to Asaba, according to ASP Mohammed Adeola, the Command’s spokesperson.

Police investigations revealed that the suspect joined a fraud syndicate in 2023 that specialized in romance scams. He allegedly posed as a white American medical doctor under the alias “Travis Kevin” and used fake social media profiles on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to trick victims. A fabricated online banking platform showing false account balances was reportedly used to make the scam appear more legitimate.

Victims were allegedly asked to send money for supposed medical expenses or feeding costs, with promises that the funds would be repaid. Transfers were reportedly made through cryptocurrency channels. The police stated that the suspect played a key role in deceiving multiple people before being caught.

The Commissioner of Police for the Airport Command, Mrs. Olufunke Ogunbode, has ordered a full investigation into the syndicate and directed operatives to apprehend other members. The suspect is set to be handed over to the Interpol unit for further investigation and prosecution, as authorities reiterated their zero-tolerance stance against crimes at aviation facilities.