The Nigeria Police Force has returned 23,000 dollars to a victim of an international romance scam in the Cayman Islands, in what officials describe as a major step in strengthening cross border cooperation against cybercrime.
The recovery followed an intelligence led investigation by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja into a Nigerian suspect, Achufusi Obioma Ikenna, who allegedly defrauded the victim through an online romance scheme. Police said the suspect was arrested and the stolen money was recovered in full.
After completing the required documentation, the funds were formally handed over to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service through the British High Commission in Abuja. The process was facilitated by a representative of the High Commission to ensure the safe return of the money to the victim. Authorities say the suspect will be charged in court once investigations are concluded.
Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Hundeyin said the operation highlights the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to tackling transnational cybercrime, tracing stolen funds and bringing offenders to justice under both local and international laws.
The police added that global cooperation remains central to fighting online fraud, stressing that intelligence sharing and partnerships with foreign law enforcement agencies are key to protecting victims and maintaining public trust.
