Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, have turned down a ₦174 million bribe offered by a notorious internet fraudster, 28-year-old Patrick Akpoguma.
The suspect, accused of various cybercrimes, confessed to attempting to bribe the police to clear his name during investigations.
Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade revealed that the investigation into Akpoguma began on November 7, 2024, following complaints from residents of Chevron Drive, Lekki, where he resides.
“Patrick Akpoguma admitted to being involved in romance scams and other cryptocurrency-related scams,” AIG Fayoade stated.
“He meets people online and pretends to be prominent Caucasian Americans, such as Colonel Matt Herbert, a U.S. Army officer, or Adam Taggart, a renowned cryptocurrency and stock expert.”
Using fake identities and profiles, Akpoguma would convince victims to fund fictitious projects, receiving payments through Bitcoin wallets or blockchain transactions.
AIG Fayoade confirmed that Akpoguma has defrauded at least seven victims using this scheme.
To solidify his deception, Akpoguma reportedly created a fake Instagram account under the name Adam Taggart and purchased a custom silicone mask for $11,200 USD to impersonate the persona on social media.
During the investigation, Akpoguma attempted to offer $100,000 USD (₦174 million) to secure his release.
“Once I was informed about this, I instructed my detectives from the Raider team, led by CSP Ngozi Braid, to play along,” AIG Fayoade explained.
“On November 12, 2024, he offered the money, which was accepted, registered as evidence, and the investigation continued. The suspect will now be arraigned accordingly.”
Speaking to journalists, Akpoguma confessed to his crimes and explained his motivation.
“I felt too intelligent to work for a salary, which is why I turned to fraud three years ago,” he admitted. “I’ve made over $500,000 USD since then. I own a house in Lagos, another in Edo State, and a GLE Benz worth ₦100 million.”
The suspect also detailed his approach to victims: “Once I defraud people and feel I’ve taken enough from them, I simply walk away. I don’t leave them penniless.”
The AIG commended the investigative team for their diligence and integrity, noting that the suspect’s bribe was documented as evidence to ensure justice is served.
The investigation highlights the Lagos police’s resolve to combat cybercrime and uphold transparency in law enforcement, with Akpoguma’s case set to proceed to court.