According to the reports from Vanguard,Patrick Akpoguma, a 28-year-old suspected internet fraudster, has confessed to engaging in multiple forms of fraud, including romance scams, identity theft, and cryptocurrency fraud. He explained that his decision to turn to illegal activities stemmed from a desire to avoid traditional salaried employment.
“I turned to fraud, didn’t want to work for salary,” Akpoguma stated in an interview at the Zone 2 Police Command in Onikan, Lagos. According to the suspect, his decision to pursue fraud began three years ago, driven by his reluctance to work in conventional jobs. Since then, Akpoguma claims to have earned over $500,000 through his fraudulent endeavors…CLICK TO READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶▶
A graduate in mechanical engineering, Akpoguma revealed that he used his illicit earnings to acquire two properties—one in Lagos and another in Edo State—as well as a luxury GLE Benz worth ₦100 million.
The investigation into Akpoguma’s activities began on November 7, 2024, following reports from residents of Chevron Drive, Lekki, where the suspect resided. Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade confirmed that Akpoguma had been involved in various scams, including impersonating prominent individuals to deceive victims into making loans via Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency transactions.
AIG Fayoade further explained that Akpoguma’s primary modus operandi was to pose as Colonel Matt Herbert, a U.S. Army officer purportedly on a peacekeeping mission in Iran, and Adam Taggart, a well-known cryptocurrency expert.
Akpoguma went to extraordinary lengths to make these impersonations seem authentic. He created a fake Instagram profile under the name “Adam Taggart” and even purchased a silicone face mask for $11,200 to closely resemble his target’s appearance.
In a further twist, Akpoguma attempted to bribe law enforcement in a bid to avoid arrest. On November 12, 2024, he offered $100,000 (approximately ₦174 million), a bribe that was accepted and documented as evidence.
AIG Fayoade confirmed that the investigation is now concluded, and Akpoguma will face charges in court. This case underscores the increasingly sophisticated tactics employed by internet fraudsters and highlights the growing challenge of financial crimes in Nigeria...CLICK TO READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶▶
