The Nigeria Police Force has extradited a suspected cyber fraudster to the United States to face charges over an alleged online romance scam that defrauded a victim of more than $1.5 million.
Samuel Ugberease, also known as “Putsammy”, “Putput”, and “Sammy”, was handed over to U.S. authorities on Wednesday, May 14, 2026, following the completion of extradition proceedings.
The operation was carried out by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja in coordination with U.S. law enforcement.
According to the police, Ugberease and his accomplices operated a criminal syndicate between 2014 and 2018 targeting women in the U.S., particularly in the Eastern District of North Carolina.
The group allegedly created fake online identities and dating profiles to build fraudulent emotional relationships with victims before tricking them into sending large sums of money under false pretences and fabricated emergencies.
Investigators said proceeds from the scams were laundered through multiple bank accounts to conceal the funds. One case linked the suspect to the defrauding of a victim of over $1.5 million.
Ugberease was arrested on Dec. 14, 2025, at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, on arrival from South Africa, acting on an INTERPOL Red Notice issued by U.S. authorities. He had been based in South Africa prior to his arrest.
The Federal High Court in Lagos granted the extradition application under the Extradition Act, CAP E25, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
The Nigeria Police Force said the case reflects its commitment to using INTERPOL tools, international partnerships, and intelligence-led policing to tackle cybercrime and transnational organized crime.
The statement was signed by DCP Anthony Placid, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
