Lagos State Task force has arrested and prosecuted six suspected fraudsters who swindled unsuspecting victims under the pretence of selecting a “lucky number” in exchange for a non-existent Android phone.
The suspects – Amaike Nelson (43) of Tiv Lane, Alaba Rago; Kenneth Opuana (56); Oguntade Olusegun (63); Ogologo Obi (29); Goodluck Abel (28); and Oluwafunmilayo Adebimpe (19)- were apprehended following credible intelligence reports.
They were accused of defrauding a 19-year-old student, Rukayat Kamilu, of her phone and personal belongings after deceiving her with their fraudulent tactics.
According to the victim, she was passing by when an elderly man, later identified as Oguntade Olusegun, approached her, pretending to be a bystander seeking help picking a lucky number from a display presented by the group.
After losing the game, her phone was seized, and the group swiftly fled the scene. She was also threatened with paying N100,000 to collect her phone back. However, swift intervention by the Taskforce led to their eventual arrest.
“During the operation, the suspects were also found in possession of several empty packs of different brands of Android phones, believed to be used in deceiving unsuspecting victims.
“This operation aligns with the agency’s mandate to prevent and stamp out criminal activities across Lagos State, particularly crimes that threaten the safety and financial security of residents during these economically challenging times,” the Chairman of the Agency, Adetayo Akerele, a Chief Superintendent of Police who led the operation, said.
He issued a stern warning to individuals involved in fraudulent activities, urging them to desist. He emphasised that the agency will not tolerate criminal behaviour and is committed to making Lagos State uninhabitable for criminal elements.
According to him, the suspects were arraigned in court after their arrest, where they pleaded guilty to a five-count charge including gambling, extortion, stealing, and conspiracy.
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