The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau Abuja, has extradited a Nigerian man identified as Samuel Ugberease, also known as “Putsammy,” “Putput,” and “Sammy,” to the United States over alleged involvement in online romance scams and financial fraud.
According to a statement issued by Anthony Placid, the suspect was extradited on Wednesday, May 14, 2026, after the completion of legal proceedings and collaboration between Nigerian and United States law enforcement agencies.
Police authorities disclosed that Ugberease, who was reportedly based in South Africa before his arrest, was wanted over allegations linked to online romance scams, wire fraud, and money laundering activities carried out between 2014 and 2018.
Investigations reportedly revealed that the suspect and his accomplices operated a criminal syndicate that targeted female victims in the United States, particularly in the Eastern District of North Carolina.
According to the police, the syndicate allegedly created fake online identities and dating profiles to deceive victims into emotional relationships before manipulating them into sending large sums of money through fabricated stories and false emergencies.
Authorities further stated that proceeds from the alleged fraud were laundered through several bank accounts used to receive and conceal illicit funds.
In one of the reported cases, the suspect was allegedly linked to the defrauding of a 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 14th December 2025 upon his arrival from South Africa, following an INTERPOL Red Notice issued by authorities in the United States,” the statement said.
Police authorities explained that extradition proceedings were later initiated at the Federal High Court in Lagos, where the court approved the application for his extradition in line with Nigeria’s Extradition Act.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to combating cybercrime, financial fraud, and transnational organised crime through international partnerships, intelligence sharing, and the use of INTERPOL mechanisms.
The force also assured local and international partners of continued cooperation in tackling global security threats and cyber-related criminal activities.
