Niger State online fraud suspect arrested for posing as a woman on social media to extort money in a growing trend of dating scams, police confirm

Niger State online fraud investigations have led to the arrest of an 18-year-old man, Victor Ugwu, who allegedly disguised himself as a woman to extort money from unsuspecting social media users, police confirmed on Sunday.

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The suspect, of Easy Life Street, Kaduna Road, was apprehended on October 16, 2025, after engaging in a public altercation with a resident identified as Peter, drawing the attention of a patrol team from the Maje Police Division.

According to Police Public Relations Officer Wasiu Abiodun, the dispute revealed a larger pattern of online deception.

“Peter had asked Victor to connect him with a female friend, but instead Victor dressed up as a woman, took photos, and demanded money,” Abiodun said.

Officers conducted a search at Victor’s residence and recovered a wig and female clothing, which he allegedly used to create the false persona.

Victor reportedly admitted to sending the manipulated images via Facebook and TikTok to several individuals, not only as part of a dating scam, but also to gain followers and boost views for monetisation purposes.

“He confessed to sharing these pictures for a dating scam and to reach 1,000 followers for monetisation,” the police spokesman added.

The case is under further investigation, but police say it serves as a stark warning about the increasing use of social media platforms for fraud.

The incident has also reignited discussions around cybercrime tactics in Nigeria, particularly how digital platforms are being exploited by young people for financial gain.

In a separate operation on the same day, the Maje Division recovered a stolen white Volkswagen Golf (registration number RSH 442 FD) along Kaduna Road, after it was reported stolen from Hayin-Kaduna.

The vehicle was recovered abandoned, and police are working to identify the perpetrator.

The Niger State Police Command has urged the public to remain vigilant online, avoid sending money to individuals they have never met in person, and to report any suspicious activity immediately.