By our Reporter
The Nigeria Police Force has extradited a suspected cyber fraudster, Samuel Ugberease, also known as “Putsammy,” “Putput,” and “Sammy,” to the United States to face charges related to online romance scams, wire fraud and other financial crimes.
The extradition was carried out through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau Abuja on Wednesday, May 14, 2026, following the completion of extradition proceedings and collaboration between Nigerian and United States law enforcement authorities.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, investigations revealed that the suspect and his accomplices operated a criminal syndicate between 2014 and 2018 that specialised in online romance scams targeting women in the United States, particularly in the Eastern District of North Carolina.
The police said the syndicate allegedly created fake online identities and dating profiles to deceive victims into fraudulent emotional relationships before convincing them to send large sums of money under false pretences and fabricated emergencies.
Further investigations showed that proceeds from the fraud were laundered through multiple bank accounts used to receive 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 United States dollars,” the statement said.
Ugberease was initially arrested by INTERPOL operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on December 14, 2025, upon his arrival from South Africa.
The arrest followed an INTERPOL Red Notice issued by authorities in the United States.
The police said extradition proceedings were subsequently initiated at the Federal High Court in Lagos, where the court granted the application for his extradition in line with the provisions of the Extradition Act.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to combating cybercrime, financial fraud and other transnational organised crimes through intelligence-led policing, international cooperation and the use of INTERPOL tools.
The force also assured both local and international partners of its continued support in promoting global security and tackling cross-border criminal activities.
