The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 39-year-old man, Udeme Emmanuel Ekpeme, for allegedly impersonating a medical doctor and defrauding a woman of ₦500,000 in a fake employment arrangement involving the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).

The suspect was arrested by officers from the Uwanse Division in Calabar South Local Government Area following a petition submitted by Mrs Edemawan Samuel, according to a statement issued on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah.

Also read: Ondo kidnappers demand ₦10m ransom for two abducted farmers

Police said the complainant alleged that Ekpeme falsely presented himself as a medical doctor and convinced her to pay ₦500,000 after claiming he could help secure employment opportunities for her children at UCTH.

“The suspect was arrested by police officers attached to Uwanse Division, Calabar South Local Government Area, following a complaint lodged by Mrs Edemawan Samuel, 45, who alleged that the suspect falsely presented himself as a medical doctor and fraudulently obtained the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (₦500,000),” the police statement said.

According to the command, preliminary investigations showed that the suspect allegedly used the false identity to gain the victim’s confidence and obtain the money under false pretences.

Police said relevant exhibits believed to be connected to the alleged offences were recovered during the investigation, while Ekpeme remains in custody.

The command listed the allegations against the suspect as impersonation, obtaining money by false pretence and the unlawful use of medical equipment.

Cross River State Commissioner of Police Rashid Afegbua has directed investigators to conduct a detailed probe to establish the extent of the alleged activities and determine whether other victims or accomplices may be involved.

Police said the suspect would be charged to court if sufficient evidence is established after the completion of investigations.

“The Command is actively conducting a discreet investigation into the matter to uncover the full extent of the suspect’s activities and identify any other possible victims or accomplices,” Eitokpah said.

The arrest comes amid renewed concerns over impersonation and fraudulent schemes involving medical professions and employment promises.

Similar cases have recently attracted attention, including the arrest of a man in Edo State accused of posing as a doctor and allegedly becoming involved in illegal activities linked to childbirth and newborn trafficking.

Also read: Ondo kidnappers demand ₦10m ransom for two abducted farmers

Authorities have continued to warn members of the public against paying individuals who claim to have influence over recruitment processes, urging citizens to verify professional identities and employment offers through official channels.