Nigerian Police Extradite Cyber Fraudster to US Over $1.5M Romance Scam

The Nigeria Police Force extradited Samuel Ugberease, also known as 'Putsammy', to the United States on May 14, 2026, to face charges related to online romance scams and wire fraud. Ugberease, who operated from South Africa, was part of a syndicate that targeted female victims in the Eastern District of North Carolina between 2014 and 2018. Investigations revealed that the group created fake online identities to manipulate victims into sending money, resulting in losses exceeding $1.5 million. His arrest occurred at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on December 14, 2025, following an INTERPOL Red Notice. Extradition proceedings were conducted in accordance with Nigerian law, emphasizing international cooperation in combating cybercrime.

Key Points: • Samuel Ugberease was extradited to the US to face charges for online romance scams. • The criminal syndicate defrauded victims of over $1.5 million between 2014 and 2018. • Ugberease was arrested in Lagos after arriving from South Africa on an INTERPOL Red Notice.