The Nigeria Police Force has extradited an alleged cyber fraud suspect, Samuel Ugberease, also known as “Putsammy”, “Putput”, and “Sammy”, to the United States over alleged involvement in online romance scams, wire fraud, and related financial crimes.
The extradition was carried out by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja on Wednesday following the conclusion of extradition proceedings and coordinated engagements between Nigerian and United States law enforcement authorities.
According to police authorities, investigations revealed that between 2014 and 2018, the suspect and his accomplices allegedly operated a criminal syndicate involved in online romance scams targeting female victims in the United States, particularly within the Eastern District of North Carolina.
The syndicate was said to have created fake online identities and dating profiles to establish fraudulent emotional relationships with victims before manipulating them into sending large sums of money under false pretences and fabricated emergencies.
Police said proceeds of the fraud were allegedly laundered through multiple bank accounts used to receive, process, and conceal illicit funds.
Investigators linked the suspect to the alleged defrauding of one victim of more than $1.5 million.
The fugitive was initially arrested by operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on December 14, 2025, upon his arrival from South Africa, following an INTERPOL Red Notice issued by authorities in the United States.
Extradition proceedings were subsequently instituted at the Federal High Court, which granted the application for his extradition in line with the provisions of the Extradition Act, CAP E25, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging INTERPOL tools, international partnerships, and intelligence-led policing to combat cybercrime, financial fraud, and other forms of transnational organised crime.
The Force also assured local and international partners of its continued cooperation in advancing global security and tackling cross-border criminal activities.
