Three Beninese nationals, aged 23, 24, and 27, have been arrested in Gaya, Niger, on suspicion of online scams. The arrests were made by the Nigerien Judicial Police Directorate (DPJ) following a series of complaints from victims who claimed to have been duped out of over 7 million FCFA. The suspects allegedly created fake online auctions, impersonating the customs administration, to swindle unsuspecting internet users.
According to investigators, the suspects used social media to publish fake auction announcements, complete with a fake state seal, stamp, and signature of the Director-General of Customs. Interested victims were then invited to continue discussions on WhatsApp, where they were asked to provide identification documents and make payments into accounts held by Nita and Amana. The suspects allegedly occupied complementary roles, with one creating payment accounts, another collecting funds, and the third organizing transfers to Benin via MTN MoMo.
The investigation revealed that part of the stolen money was converted into cryptocurrency. Authorities also found that the suspects used virtual French numbers to contact other victims, posing as European nationals. The arrested individuals have reportedly confessed to the crimes during interrogation. The DPJ stated that over 37 people have filed complaints, with a provisional estimated loss of 7 million FCFA.
The Beninese nationals were arrested following a series of complaints from victims who claimed to have been deceived by fake online auctions. A fourth suspect, believed to be residing in Benin, is still being sought by authorities. The DPJ is working to determine the full extent of the network's activities and to track down the remaining suspect.
The fake auction scam involved victims being lured into making payments for goods they believed were being sold by the customs administration. However, the goods did not exist, and the money was simply stolen by the suspects. The use of fake identification documents and virtual phone numbers made it difficult for victims to track down the scammers.
The Nigerien authorities have been working to crack down on online scams, which have become increasingly prevalent in the region. The DPJ has urged internet users to be cautious when responding to online advertisements and to verify the authenticity of any offers before making payments.
The arrested suspects are currently in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities hope that the arrests will serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar scams and that the victims will be able to recover their losses.
Key points
- Three Beninese nationals arrested in Niger for online scams involving fake customs auctions.
- The suspects stole over 7 million FCFA from over 37 victims.
- A fourth suspect is still being sought by authorities.
