The Enugu State Police Command has apprehended a 26-year-old individual, identified as Somtochukwu Franklin, on charges of impersonating a renowned philanthropist on Facebook to swindle the public.
The arrest, as announced by DSP Daniel Ndukwe, the command’s spokesperson, occurred on December 3, around 12:30 p.m., following actionable intelligence received by the New Haven Police Division.
Franklin is accused of exploiting the identity of Chief Emmanuel Okoh, also known as “Okwuluora,” to deceive people into parting with their money.
The suspect allegedly admitted to creating the counterfeit “Okwuluora” Facebook account in January 2023, which he used to request donations from his 33,000+ followers.
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The modus operandi involved waiting for the real Okwuluora to post about supporting individuals needing financial help, after which Franklin would replicate the post on the fraudulent account with altered payment details to mislead donors.
This scheme has reportedly netted Franklin tens of thousands of naira from well-meaning contributors.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kanayo Uzuegbu, has directed the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department to conduct an exhaustive investigation and ensure the suspect’s prompt prosecution.
Moreover, Commissioner Uzuegbu urges anyone who fell victim to the scam to come forward and provide their statements to the State CID.
He also cautions the public to remain vigilant against such deceitful activities on social media platforms, particularly during the festive season.