Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have busted a visa scam syndicate and arrested four suspects allegedly involved in defrauding over 100 Nigerians of a total sum of ₦500 million under the guise of securing foreign work visas.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the suspects were apprehended by officers of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, following a referral from the Ago Okota Police Division.

Hundeyin disclosed that the arrested individuals, identified as Blessing Wefsutu (27), Chineye Christian (36), Archibong Udeme Ifereke (23), and Maurine Peter (25), were all staff members of an educational consultancy based in the Ago Okota area of Lagos.

“The suspects collected various sums of money from over 100 unsuspecting victims with the false promise of processing Canadian and Australian work visas for them,” the police spokesperson stated.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the consultancy firm was a front for a well-coordinated criminal syndicate, which had amassed approximately ₦500 million from desperate job seekers before disappearing without fulfilling their promises.

Hundeyin also noted that additional accomplices are believed to be involved in the fraudulent operation. “Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and bring them to justice,” he added.

Lagos Commissioner’s remark

Meanwhile, speaking on the development, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, advised members of the public to exercise caution and thoroughly verify the legitimacy of travel and recruitment agencies before making any financial commitments.

“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to protect residents from fraudulent schemes and will continue to pursue justice on behalf of the victims,” the Commissioner assured.

The suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court at the conclusion of the investigation.