The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, has extradited one Samuel Ugberease, also known as “Putsammy,” “Putput,” and “Sammy,” to the United States to face charges of online romance scams, wire fraud, and related financial crimes.
Extradition Proceedings Concluded
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Okon Placid, the suspect, who was based in South Africa before his arrest, was extradited on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, following the conclusion of extradition proceedings and coordinated engagements between Nigerian and U.S. law enforcement authorities.
Criminal Syndicate Operations
According to the statement, investigations revealed that between 2014 and 2018, the suspect and his accomplices allegedly operated a criminal syndicate involved in online romance scams targeting female victims in the United States, particularly within the Eastern District of North Carolina.
“The syndicate reportedly created fake online identities and dating profiles to establish fraudulent emotional relationships with victims before manipulating them into sending large sums of money under false pretences and fabricated emergencies.”
“Further investigations established that proceeds of the fraud were laundered through multiple bank accounts used to receive, process, and conceal illicit funds. In one of the reported cases, the suspect was linked to the defrauding of a victim of over $1.5 million,” the statement said.
Arrest and Legal Process
The police disclosed that the suspect was initially arrested by operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on December 14, 2025, upon his arrival from South Africa, following an INTERPOL Red Notice issued by U.S. authorities.
Extradition proceedings were subsequently instituted at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, where the court granted the application for his extradition in line with the provisions of the Extradition Act, CAP E25, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
Commitment to Global Security
“The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to leveraging INTERPOL tools, international partnerships, and intelligence-led policing to combat cybercrime, financial fraud, and other transnational organised criminal activities, while assuring both local and international partners of its continued cooperation in advancing global security,” the statement added.
