Nigeria Extradites Romance Scam Suspect to US for $1.5 Million Fraud

The Nigeria Police Force has successfully extradited Samuel Ugberease, a suspect involved in online romance scams, to the United States to face charges of wire fraud and related financial crimes. The extradition, completed on May 14, 2026, followed coordinated efforts between Nigerian and US law enforcement agencies and legal proceedings at the Federal High Court in Lagos. Investigations revealed that Ugberease, also known as 'Putsammy,' operated a criminal syndicate between 2014 and 2018. The group targeted female victims in the US, particularly in North Carolina, by creating fake dating profiles to establish fraudulent emotional relationships. They subsequently manipulated victims into sending money under false pretenses and fabricated emergencies. Authorities stated that illicit funds were laundered through multiple bank accounts. In one significant case, the suspect defrauded a single victim of over $1.5 million. Ugberease was initially arrested in December 2025 at Lagos airport upon arrival from South Africa, acting on an INTERPOL Red Notice. This action underscores the ongoing international cooperation in combating transnational cybercrime and financial fraud.