Why I Resorted to Fraud. An explanation from a Man Who Offered the Police a $100,000 Bribe.

Patrick Akpoguma, a 28-year-old individual suspected of internet fraud, has admitted to participating in various fraudulent schemes, including romance scams, identity theft, and cryptocurrency fraud. He disclosed that his choice to engage in fraudulent activities was motivated by a desire to evade conventional employment. "I resorted to fraud because I did not want to earn a salary," Akpoguma remarked during an interview at the Zone 2 Police Command in Onikan, Lagos. He indicated that his aversion to traditional work led him to embark on a path of deceit three years ago, a decision that has reportedly netted him over $500,000. A graduate in mechanical engineering, the suspect asserts that he utilized his illicit gains to acquire two properties—one located in Lagos and another in Edo State—as well as a GLE Benz valued at ₦100 million. Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade confirmed that the inquiry into Akpoguma commenced on November 7, 2024, following complaints from residents of Chevron Drive, Lekki, where he resides. Investigations revealed that Akpoguma was engaged in a range of scams, including impersonating prominent figures online to deceive victims into providing loans through Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency transactions. AIG Fayoade disclosed that Akpoguma's primary method involved masquerading as Colonel Matt Herbert, a U.S. Army officer on a peacekeeping mission in Iran, and Adam Taggart, a well-known cryptocurrency specialist. Furthermore, Akpoguma took significant measures to enhance the credibility of his impersonations, including the creation of a fraudulent Instagram account under the name 'Adam Taggart' and the purchase of a silicone face mask for $11,200 to closely resemble his target. In a surprising turn of events, Akpoguma attempted to bribe the police to evade capture. On November 12, 2024, he offered $100,000 (approximately ₦174 million), which was accepted and recorded as evidence. AIG Fayoade has announced the conclusion of the investigation, stating that Akpoguma will be brought before the court. This case underscores the escalating sophistication of techniques employed by internet fraudsters and the rising issue of financial crime in Nigeria.