RismadarVoice Reporters, May 14, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force has extradited a suspected cyber fraudster, Samuel Ugberease, also known by the aliases “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 (NCB), Abuja, following the completion of legal proceedings and coordinated efforts between Nigerian and United States law enforcement authorities.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the suspect was extradited on Wednesday, May 14, 2026.
Police investigations revealed that between 2014 and 2018, Ugberease and his accomplices allegedly operated an online fraud syndicate that targeted female victims in the United States, particularly within the Eastern District of North Carolina.
The syndicate was said to have used fake online identities and fabricated dating profiles to establish emotional relationships with victims before manipulating them into sending large sums of money through false claims and fabricated emergencies.
Further investigations reportedly showed that proceeds of the fraudulent activities were laundered through multiple bank accounts used to receive, process, and conceal illicit funds.
In one of the cases linked to the suspect, authorities alleged that a victim was defrauded of more than $1.5 million.
The police disclosed that the suspect, who had been residing in South Africa before his arrest, was apprehended by operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on December 14, 2025, upon his arrival from South Africa.
His arrest followed an INTERPOL Red Notice issued at the request of United States authorities.
Following his arrest, extradition proceedings were initiated before the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, which subsequently granted the application for his extradition in line with the provisions of the Extradition Act, CAP E25, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to combating cybercrime, financial fraud, and transnational organised crimes through intelligence-led policing, international collaboration, and the deployment of INTERPOL mechanisms.
The force also assured both local and international partners of its continued cooperation in promoting global security and tackling cross-border criminal activities.
