Nigerian National Arrested by UP STF in Alleged Multi-Crore Cyber Fraud Case

Post Views: 14

Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) detained a Nigerian national in Delhi over a cyber fraud scheme targeting Indian citizens via deceptive social media identities.

Detention and Investigation Details

The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) detained a Nigerian national in Delhi over allegations of orchestrating a cyber fraud operation. The suspect, Obase Prosper (27), was residing in Raju Park, South Delhi, and entered India in 2023 on a medical visa but allegedly remained beyond its expiration.

Recovered Evidence

During a coordinated operation, law enforcement recovered 5.085 kilograms of methamphetamine, estimated to be worth over ₹10 crore in global markets, alongside five mobile devices and two passports.

Fraud Methodology

The suspect created fictitious profiles on platforms like Instagram, posing as a U.S. or U.K. citizen to connect with individuals in India and abroad. After building trust, he allegedly claimed to send expensive items, foreign currency, or valuable packages. Victims were later contacted by syndicate members impersonating customs or tax officials, demanding payments to release seized shipments.

Suspects and Criminal Case

A resident of Daliganj in Lucknow was allegedly defrauded of ₹68 lakh through this scheme. Another suspect, Uchenwa, is under investigation. A criminal case had previously been filed in connection with the operation. Obase Prosper allegedly admitted to the participation of multiple foreign nationals in the organized network.

Illegal Residency and Network

Authorities suspect some group members continued to reside in India illegally after their visas expired, using false identities to target both Indian and international victims via social media. One of Prosper’s associates was arrested in Delhi on May 15, leading to a joint operation with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) that resulted in Prosper’s arrest.

Cybercrime Expert Insights

Cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh highlighted that fraudsters frequently exploit social engineering tactics by posing as foreign nationals and offering unsolicited gifts or currency. These schemes are typically followed by fraudulent communications from individuals impersonating customs, tax, or courier officials demanding payments.

The expert advised the public to avoid trusting unsolicited offers and to verify claims independently before making any financial transactions.

Ongoing Investigation

Police confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, focusing on analyzing seized digital devices, financial records, and international connections to map the full scope of the cyber fraud and narcotics trafficking network. Additional efforts are being made to locate and arrest other suspected members of the syndicate.