The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a massive visa scam syndicate that allegedly swindled over 100 Nigerians out of ₦500 million under the guise of securing overseas jobs in Canada and Australia.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, four suspects have been apprehended by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in connection with the elaborate fraud. Those arrested are Blessing Wefsutu, 27; Chineye Christian, 36; Archibong Udeme Ifereke, 23; and Maurine Peter, 25. All four worked for an educational consultancy based in the Ago Okota area of Lagos.
The victims reportedly approached the consultancy firm for assistance in obtaining employment abroad. However, rather than receiving genuine help, they were allegedly deceived and fleeced of large sums of money under the false assurance of being granted valid Canadian and Australian work visas.
Investigators believe the fraud was far-reaching, involving other members yet to be captured. The police have launched a wider search for additional suspects linked to the operation.
A portion of the police statement reads: “The Lagos State Police Command, through its State Criminal Investigation Department, has arrested four individuals suspected to be part of a widespread visa scam valued at ₦500 million. The suspects—Blessing Wefsutu (female, 27), Chineye Christian (female, 36), Archibong Udeme Ifereke (male, 23), and Maurine Peter (male, 25)—were all staff of an educational consultancy in Ago Okota.”
It further disclosed: “The case, initially reported at the Ago Okota Police Division, was transferred to the SCID for deeper investigation. Preliminary findings show the suspects duped more than 100 unsuspecting individuals, collecting substantial sums from them with false promises of providing overseas employment visas.”
Police added that investigations had so far pointed to more culprits behind the scenes, and that efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining syndicate members for prosecution.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, urged the public to be cautious and thoroughly verify any travel or job-related agency before entering into agreements. He also reassured Lagos residents that the Command is fully committed to protecting them from fraud and bringing perpetrators to book.
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