The arrest was confirmed by the Police Public Relations Officer of the FCID, ASP Aminat Mayegun, who disclosed the couple’s deep entanglement in the fraudulent operation.

Detectives from the Special Investigations Team of the Anti-Fraud Section attached to the FCID launched a swift, intelligence-driven investigation following a petition submitted by Mr. Tochukwu Unachukwu, Managing Director of Casco Electronics Company Limited. The petition, dated September 9, 2024, was addressed to the Assistant Inspector General of Police at the FCID Annex, Lagos, and filed by Chinedu Laz and Partners (Deo Gratia Chambers) on behalf of the complainant.

According to ASP Mayegun:

“Between March and May 2024, Mr. Unachukwu made payments totalling N320 million to Chinedu and Janet Ngwaka through their company accounts—Edunaco Multiple Resources Limited and Bright Janes World—to purchase USD 200,000 for the importation of goods from China.”

The Unveiling of Fraud

Investigations revealed a web of deceit: fraudulent banking documents, including a fabricated telex confirmation from Zenith Bank, were presented to the victim to falsely indicate that the funds had been transferred in two tranches of USD 100,000. However, inquiries with the Chinese suppliers revealed no funds were ever received.

Additionally, detectives recovered a 2024 black Toyota Hilux with a fraudulent Presidency number plate (02B679FG) from Mr. Ngwaka, who falsely claimed to be operating under the name Phobia BDC Ltd.

Armed with incriminating banking records and evidence, the FCID secured a Warrant of Arrest, leading to the apprehension of Chinedu Ngwaka, who self-identified as a licensed Bureau De Change (BDC) operator, alongside his wife, Janet.

This arrest highlights the critical role of intelligence-led policing and underscores the Nigerian Police Force’s commitment to combating financial crimes.

Conclusion