A fraud network built around false promises of overseas relocation has been dismantled in Cross River State by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 6 Command.
The operation, carried out by the Zonal Criminal Investigation Department (ZCID), led to the rescue of more than 100 victims who were allegedly trapped in a sophisticated “Japa” scam.
Authorities also revealed that a ₦50 million bribe was offered in an attempt to frustrate the investigation, but it was rejected.
Police spokesperson DSP Jefferson Osupe Anisma disclosed that the crackdown followed credible intelligence about a criminal enterprise preying on young Nigerians eager to relocate abroad.
Victims were reportedly lured with assurances of visas, foreign passports, and high-paying jobs overseas.
Rather than processing travel documents, the syndicate allegedly persuaded victims to sell assets, quit their jobs, and transfer large sums of money. They were then moved to controlled locations within the state, where they were psychologically manipulated and financially stranded.
Investigators found that the group maintained its cover by placing victims in well-furnished apartments and staging photographs to create the false impression of successful relocation.
These images were circulated on social media to attract more targets. Some victims were allegedly compelled to recruit others into the scheme.
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Auwal Musa Mohammad, directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Udu Moses Ogechi, to lead the coordinated operation, which took place in the early hours of February 14.
Several key suspects were arrested during the raid, while others are said to be on the run. The rescued victims have been handed over to the state government for proper care, documentation, and reintegration.