Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested 23 foreign nationals in connection with alleged Ponzi schemes, visa scams, and other immigration-related offences. The arrests were made on August 4, 2026, during a raid on a gated residential building within an estate off Iyana Iyesi, Onipanu, Ota, at approximately 11:00 AM.
Raided Estate Yields Suspects
According to a statement issued by the command's spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, on Monday, August 10, in Abeokuta, the raid followed credible intelligence received by the police concerning suspected fraudulent activities at the location. The police personnel promptly mobilized, secured the premises, and arrested the suspects for further investigation.
“The raid followed credible intelligence received by the police concerning suspected fraudulent activities at the location,” Babaseyi said. “The police personnel promptly mobilised, secured the premises and arrested the suspects for further investigation.”
23 Foreign Nationals Taken into Custody
Babaseyi confirmed that 23 foreign nationals were arrested in connection with the alleged Ponzi scheme, visa scam, and other immigration-related offences. After preliminary investigation, 21 of the suspects were formally handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on August 5 for further immigration-related investigation and appropriate action.
“23 foreign nationals were arrested in connection with alleged Ponzi scheme, visa scam and others immigration -related offences. After preliminary investigation, 21 of the suspects were formally handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service on August 5, for further immigration-related investigation and appropriate action,” he stated.
Two Suspects Retained for Prosecution
The spokesperson added that two suspects were retained by the police for prosecution in connection with Obtaining by False Pretence (OBT) and other related offences, subject to the conclusion of the investigation. The investigation is ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged fraudulent activities and identify any other persons connected with the scheme.
Babaseyi said, “The investigation is ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged fraudulent activities and identify any other persons connected with the scheme.”
Impact and Next Steps
The arrests underscore the growing concern over fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting victims in Nigeria. Ponzi schemes and visa scams have become prevalent, often involving foreign nationals exploiting legal loopholes. The Ogun State Police Command's swift action demonstrates its commitment to curbing such criminal activities and protecting the public from financial and immigration-related fraud.
Residents in the Ota area have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The police have assured the public that they will continue to work with other agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, to ensure that justice is served and that all perpetrators are brought to book.
As the investigation progresses, more details are expected to emerge, potentially leading to further arrests and the dismantling of the fraudulent network. The police have called on anyone with information related to the case to come forward to assist in the ongoing efforts.
