The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre has arrested a mother and her daughter over an alleged romance scam that reportedly swindled a Malta-based victim of more than N18 million.
Police identified the suspects as 39-year-old Urowhe Diana and her 22-year-old daughter, Rokibat Oluwasheyi Imoru.
According to investigators, the duo allegedly worked with Rokibat’s stepfather, Emmanuel Amanfo, who is currently on the run, to operate multiple bank accounts used for fraudulent transactions.
Police said the suspects allegedly received money from victims through money transfer operators and direct deposits into bank accounts belonging to Rokibat.
The funds were later moved into an Ecobank account owned by her mother, Urowhe Diana, where the money was allegedly spent.
The Force spokesman for the cybercrime unit, DSP Unwana Imah, said the case involved allegations of computer fraud, identity theft and money laundering.
Investigators added that forensic tracking of the suspects’ digital activities led to their arrest.
Police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend Amanfo, who was described as the mastermind behind the operation.
The suspects are expected to be charged in court after investigations are concluded.
