INTERPOL Extradites Nigerian ‘Yahoo Boy’ to US Over $1.5m Romance Scam

INTERPOL Extradites Nigerian ‘Yahoo Boy’ to US Over $1.5m Romance Scam

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the extradition of a suspected cybercriminal, Samuel Ugberease, also known as “Putsammy,” “Putput,” and “Sammy,” to the United States over alleged involvement in online romance scams, wire fraud, and money laundering activities.

The extradition was carried out on May 14, 2026, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, following the conclusion of coordinated legal and diplomatic proceedings between Nigerian authorities and the United States.

According to the Police, the suspect had been under investigation for years in connection with a transnational cybercrime syndicate accused of targeting victims in the United States through sophisticated online fraud schemes.

Investigators alleged that between 2014 and 2018, Ugberease and his accomplices ran an organised network involved in online romance scams and internet fraud schemes. The group reportedly created fake online identities and dating profiles to lure victims, mostly in the United States Eastern District of North Carolina, into emotional relationships. Once trust was established, victims were allegedly manipulated into sending money under false pretences, including fabricated emergencies and financial distress.

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Authorities also said the proceeds of the fraud were moved through multiple bank accounts as part of a wider money laundering network designed to conceal the source of illicit funds.

In one of the major cases linked to the syndicate, investigators alleged that a victim was defrauded of over $1.5 million through the scheme, highlighting the scale of the operation.

The suspect was arrested by INTERPOL operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on December 14, 2025, after arriving from South Africa. His arrest followed an INTERPOL Red Notice issued at the request of U.S. authorities, which triggered coordinated surveillance and intelligence sharing between international law enforcement agencies.

Following his arrest, extradition proceedings were filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos, which approved his transfer to the United States in accordance with Nigeria’s Extradition Act. The court ruling cleared the way for his formal handover to U.S. authorities to face prosecution over charges related to cyber fraud, romance scams, and financial crimes.

The Nigeria Police Force said the extradition underscores its commitment to fighting cybercrime in Nigeria, strengthening international partnerships, and supporting global efforts against transnational organised crime. Officials noted that cooperation with INTERPOL and foreign law enforcement agencies remains key to dismantling cross-border fraud networks operating through digital platforms.

INTERPOL Extradites Nigerian ‘Yahoo Boy’ to US Over $1.5m Romance Scam