The Niger State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old man, Victor Ugwu, for allegedly posing as a woman on social media to defraud unsuspecting victims through a fake dating scheme.
Victor, a resident of Easy Life Street along Kaduna Road, was apprehended by officers from the Maje Division on October 16, 2025, following a public altercation with another resident, identified only as Peter.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer for the Niger State Command, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, the situation escalated when Peter informed officers that Victor had deceived him over the past year using a false female identity online.
“On October 16, 2025, at about 6pm, a patrol team attached to Maje Division, while on routine patrol along Kaduna Road, intercepted Victor Ugwu in a public argument with one Peter of the same area,” Abiodun stated.
Peter alleged that he had previously asked Victor to introduce him to a female acquaintance. Instead, Victor reportedly dressed in women’s clothing, took photographs of himself, and sent them to Peter under the guise of being the woman in question, all while soliciting money.
“Surprisingly, Victor chose to dress like a lady, took self-pictures, and forwarded them to Peter through social media, requesting money,” the police spokesperson said.
A search conducted at the suspect’s residence revealed a wig and various items of women’s clothing used in the deception. During interrogation, Victor confessed to not only deceiving Peter but also sending similar content to other individuals on Facebook and TikTok in an effort to gain followers and monetize his social media presence.
“He confessed that he shared the pictures to his contacts on Facebook and TikTok for a dating scam, and to also achieve one thousand viewers and followers for monetisation,” Abiodun revealed.
The case is currently under further investigation, and authorities have reiterated their warning to the public about the growing prevalence of online fraud.
“This incident highlights the increasing use of social media platforms for criminal activity. We urge members of the public to be vigilant, verify identities online, and avoid sending money to individuals they have not met in person,” Abiodun cautioned.
In a related development, the police also recovered a stolen vehicle along Kaduna Road the same day. A white Golf car with registration number RSH 442 FD was reported stolen from Hayin-Kaduna, prompting a rapid response from Maje Division officers.
“Fortunately, the vehicle was found abandoned and recovered to the police station. The complainant confirmed it as the stolen vehicle. Investigation is ongoing to identify the perpetrator,” Abiodun added.
The Niger State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to tackling cybercrime and fraud, and assured residents that those found guilty of such offences will face prosecution.
