NIGERIA POLICE EXTRADITES WANTED CYBER FRAUD SUSPECT TO UNITED STATES
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has extradited a wanted cybercrime suspect, Samuel Ugberease, also known as “Putsammy,” “Putput,” and “Sammy,” to the United States to face charges of online romance scam, wire fraud, and related financial offences.
The suspect, who was previously based in South Africa, was extradited on Wednesday, May 14, 2026, following the conclusion of legal proceedings and coordinated efforts between Nigerian and United States law enforcement authorities.
According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, investigations revealed that Ugberease and his accomplices operated a criminal syndicate between 2014 and 2018, targeting female victims in the United States, particularly within the Eastern District of North Carolina.
The group allegedly created fake online identities and dating profiles to establish romantic relationships with victims before defrauding them through fabricated emergencies and false pretences.
The police said proceeds of the fraud were laundered through multiple bank accounts used to receive and conceal illicit funds. In one of the cases, the suspect was allegedly linked to a fraud amount exceeding $1.5 million.
Ugberease was first arrested by INTERPOL operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on December 14, 2025, upon arrival from South Africa, following a Red Notice issued by United States authorities.
The extradition was subsequently approved by the Federal High Court in Lagos in line with the Extradition Act, CAP E25, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
The Police reaffirmed its commitment to international cooperation in tackling cybercrime and transnational financial fraud, noting that the development reflects strengthened collaboration with global security partners.
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