Police Arrest Fraud Syndicate Targeting Lagos Traders

Lagos police have arrested suspected members of fraud syndicates accused of targeting traders and business owners in major markets across the state.

Investigators recovered a list said to contain details of more than 125 traders and business operators in markets including Oshodi, Arena, Idumota, Alaba and Trade Fair.

The suspects allegedly lured victims with fake commodity supply deals and other business proposals before dispossessing them of money. Punch reported six arrests, while Vanguard reported seven; both accounts described two linked groups and the same 125-target list.

The operation came after police moved in on suspects who had allegedly lured a cloth seller to the Ayobo area of Lagos. Further arrests followed as investigators traced other members of the groups.

Vanguard reported that the syndicates studied traders and the commodities they dealt in before approaching them with offers that appeared profitable. Punch also reported that one suspect told investigators the group operated from Ogun State while targeting Lagos market operators.

Sources: Punch, Vanguard