Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, refused a N174 million bribe from a 28-year-old alleged internet fraudster, Patrick Akpoguma. Akpoguma, who claims to be “too intelligent” for regular employment, made this statement during his parade by Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Adegoke Fayoade.
The suspect, a Mechanical Engineering graduate, admitted to offering $100,000 (equivalent to N174 per dollar) as a bribe to evade justice. Speaking to journalists, Akpoguma revealed:
“I am a 28-year-old graduate who turned to fraud while searching for legitimate opportunities. Over three years, I’ve earned over $500,000, acquiring properties in Lagos, Edo State, and a GLE Benz worth N100 million. I never leave my victims penniless; I only take what I feel is sufficient and move on.”
Akpoguma acknowledged this as his first encounter with the police and praised their integrity in rejecting his bribe:
“This experience restores faith in the Nigerian police. It’s good to see officers committed to transparency and justice. To others like me, I advise finding legitimate work. Illegitimate income lacks stability and opportunities for growth.”
Details of Akpoguma’s Fraudulent Activities
AIG Fayoade disclosed that the investigation into Akpoguma began on November 7, 2024, following complaints from Chevron Drive, Lekki, where the suspect resides. Akpoguma confessed to engaging in romance scams and cryptocurrency fraud.
Using aliases like *Colonel Matt Herbert*, a U.S. Army officer, and *Adam Taggart*, a cryptocurrency expert, he lured unsuspecting victims into providing financial support. To further his schemes, he created a fake Instagram account and purchased a $11,200 silicone face and hand mask to impersonate these identities.
“He convinced victims he was working on critical projects needing funding, receiving payments via Bitcoin wallets and blockchain transactions,” AIG Fayoade explained. “So far, seven victims have been identified.”
The Bribe Attempt
During the investigation, Akpoguma allegedly offered $100,000 to secure his release. Detectives documented the offer as evidence and continued their probe. AIG Fayoade confirmed the case is concluded, and the suspect will soon face charges in court.
This incident underscores the commitment of the Zone 2 Command to upholding integrity and ensuring justice prevails.