Police in Akwa Ibom State captured three men suspected of running a nationwide fraud operation. Officers detained the suspects at their base in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government on September 5. DSP Timfon John announced the arrests on Monday after months of investigation that began in July. Commissioner Baba Mohammed Azare directed the intelligence operation following victim complaints. The technical surveillance led authorities to the criminal's hideout.
Prince Francis Albert served as the 27-year-old group leader who contacted victims using five different phone numbers. The graduate from Sokoto State Polytechnic admitted to starting his schemes in 2022 and targeting high-ranking officials. Augustine Ernest Bassey operated as the point-of-sale handler, collecting stolen money through his digital account. Mbetobong Godwin helped receive fraudulent payments through his separate online banking system. Albert relocated from Oyo State to Akwa Ibom in April to escape law enforcement pursuit.
Prince Francis Albert served as the 27-year-old group leader who contacted victims using five different phone numbers. The graduate from Sokoto State Polytechnic admitted to starting his schemes in 2022 and targeting high-ranking officials. Augustine Ernest Bassey operated as the point-of-sale handler, collecting stolen money through his digital account. Mbetobong Godwin helped receive fraudulent payments through his separate online banking system. Albert relocated from Oyo State to Akwa Ibom in April to escape law enforcement pursuit.
