On January 5, 2026, authorities at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos apprehended 20-year-old Essien Emmanuel Akpama. Police allege Akpama masterminded an international romance scam, defrauding victims—mainly from the United States—of nearly ₦1 billion (over $1 million), much of it laundered through cryptocurrency and high-value gift cards.
How the Scam Worked
According to official statements, Akpama posed as a United Nations orthopaedic surgeon on social media and dating platforms. By establishing emotional connections with targets, he convinced victims that he needed money for emergencies or business investments—including a fraudulent crypto project called BullRun 2.0. Victims were routinely asked to invest in the crypto scheme or send funds and high-value electronics.
Key Details of the Case
- Victims: Mostly women in the US and other countries, including one who reportedly lost $1 million.
- Techniques used: Romance grooming, celebrity scam tactics, false investment proposals, and requests for gift cards.
- Recovered items: Police seized an iPhone 17 Pro Max, a MacBook Pro, and evidence allegedly linked to the fraud network.
Police and Legal Action
The case was transferred to Nigeria’s Special Fraud Unit (SFU) for further investigation. Authorities are cooperating with international agencies. The suspect faces charges of fraud, identity theft, and conspiracy under Nigerian law, and may face extradition if US prosecutors seek it.
Protect Yourself from Romance & Crypto Scams
- Never send money or crypto to online contacts you haven’t met in person.
- Be wary of anyone who insists on secrecy or asks to move chats off verified platforms.
- Verify photos and profiles by reverse image search.
- If in doubt, consult trusted friends, family, or authorities before transferring money.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
- Stop all communication immediately and preserve all messages as evidence.
- Contact your bank or crypto provider to halt/freeze transactions.
- Report the incident to the police and online platforms.
- Seek emotional support if affected.
FAQs
How much was stolen?
Police estimate total fraud at ₦1 billion, with single victims losing up to $1 million.
Can lost funds be recovered?
Recovery is rare, especially with crypto or gift cards, but prompt police reporting helps investigations.
Why do people fall for romance scams?
Scammers exploit trust, emotional manipulation, and FOMO tied to fake investment deals.
If something feels off in an online relationship, seek advice before sending money. Stay safe!
