Crime

Six Individuals Arrested in Lagos for Running a Fake Street Lottery Scam; Student Loses Phone and ₦100,000

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 28th, 2025.

Six Individuals Arrested in Lagos for Running a Fake Street Lottery Scam; Student Loses Phone and ₦100,000

The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit, popularly known as the Taskforce, recently detained six suspects involved in a counterfeit lottery scam at Iyana-Ipaja, according to reports from Eyes of Lagos.

The accused — Amaike Nelson, Kenneth Opuana, Oguntade Olusegun, Ogologo Obi, Goodluck Abel, and Oluwafunmilayo Adebimpe — were caught following intelligence that uncovered their deceptive street game. They lured innocent passersby into a rigged number-picking lottery, tricking victims into believing they could win.

One victim, a 19-year-old student named Rukayat Kamilu, was duped when a gang member pretended to be confused and asked for her help in selecting a “winning” number. During the interaction, the group seized her phone and demanded ₦100,000 as ransom for its return.

Acting on a tip-off, operatives led by Taskforce Chairman CSP Adetayo Akerele conducted a raid, resulting in the arrest of all six suspects. Investigators also recovered several empty Android phone boxes, which appeared to be props used to make the scam appear legitimate.

In a statement, CSP Akerele strongly denounced the fraudulent activity and reiterated the Taskforce’s commitment to protecting Lagos residents.

“We are steadfast in our mission to shield Lagosians from fraudsters. Street scams and extortion will be met with zero tolerance,” he emphasized.

The suspects have been charged with conspiracy, theft, gambling, and extortion and were arraigned before a Magistrates’ Court. They pleaded guilty and are currently held in custody pending their next court date on August 7, 2025.

The Lagos Taskforce urges the public to stay alert and report any suspicious street dealings immediately to law enforcement agencies.