Police officers in Lagos have uncovered a major visa scam worth over ₦500 million and arrested four people linked to the fraud.
The Lagos State Police Command said the suspects—Blessing Wefsutu (27), Chineye Christian (36), Archibong Udeme Ifereke (23), and Maurine Peter (25)—worked for an educational consultancy firm located in the Ago Okota area of Lagos.
According to the police, the suspects allegedly collected large sums of money from over 100 victims, promising to secure them work visas for Canada and Australia. However, the promised jobs and visas never came, and the victims began reporting their losses.
Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the arrests on Wednesday through a post on X (formerly Twitter).
He said, “The suspects defrauded more than 100 people of approximately ₦500 million under the pretense of securing work visas.”
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The case was first reported at the Ago Okota Police Division before it was moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Yaba for deeper investigation.
“Further investigations indicate that the syndicate includes additional accomplices who are currently at large. The command is intensifying efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects and ensure that all those involved are brought to justice,” Hundeyin added.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, warned the public to be careful when dealing with travel and job agencies.
“People should always verify the legitimacy of any agency offering visa or job services abroad,” he said.