The Ogun State Police Command has arrested 45-year-old Tony Ameachi in connection with an alleged ₦2.5 million fraud involving a deep-freezer dealer, following an investigation that began in April 2026.
The complainant had on 1 April 2026 responded to an online advertisement for deep freezers and transferred ₦2.5 million into a bank account bearing the name Abdulmoruf Abdulahi. The goods were not delivered, while the person she was dealing with subsequently stopped responding. She reported the matter at Igbesa Police Division on 4 April.
Detectives traced Ameachi to Ojo, Lagos State, where he was arrested on 22 September 2026. A search led to the recovery of 25 ATM cards, 25 mobile phones and 16 SIM cards.
Police said further investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly obtained utility bills and newly registered SIM cards from associates, who were directed to use them to open bank accounts. The ATM cards were subsequently collected and allegedly used for fraudulent transactions.
LESSONS FROM THE CASE
• Verify the identity and credibility of online sellers before making payments.
• Confirm the identity of the account holder, especially where it differs from the person you are dealing with.
• Keep transaction receipts, account details, phone numbers and messages as evidence.
• Report suspected fraud promptly to aid investigation and evidence preservation.
• Never allow others to use your ATM cards, bank accounts, SIM cards or personal documents.
• Keep utility bills and other documents used for account registration secure.
• Independently verify online offers before transferring money.
INSIDE KADUNA PAGE
