In a major breakthrough in the fight against transnational crime, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have apprehended a Canadian national, Robert Harms, and a Nigerian woman, Okeke Ogechi Njaka, over an elaborate scam involving a staggering ₦452 million and $210,000.
Harms was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja as he attempted to flee Nigeria, following investigations into a bogus waste-to-energy investment scheme. The Canadian, who allegedly posed as an international investor, is said to have duped a Nigerian firm under the guise of bringing foreign capital and technology for an energy conversion project that never existed.
Police sources confirmed that Harms has been arraigned and remanded at a correctional facility in Uyo, pending further legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, Okeke Ogechi Njaka, who had earlier been declared wanted, was re-arrested in Abuja. She is accused of masterminding a fraudulent medical aid non-governmental organization, which she allegedly used as a front to siphon funds from unsuspecting Nigerians and foreign donors. Authorities believe the fake NGO solicited donations under the pretense of providing medical assistance to vulnerable communities.
Two other individuals, believed to be accomplices in the multi-layered fraud network, have also been charged in connection with the case.
In a statement released on Monday, the Nigeria Police reaffirmed their resolve to clamp down on cyber and transnational financial crimes. The Force emphasized that fraudsters increasingly exploit sophisticated methods, including impersonation and fake partnerships, to defraud the public.
“The public is hereby warned to exercise due diligence and thoroughly verify all international business or philanthropic engagements before committing funds,” the statement read.
This development underscores the growing threat of cyber-enabled fraud in Nigeria and the importance of increased vigilance as the Police continue their nationwide crackdown on financial criminals.