The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended Osang Otukpa, a suspected internet fraudster accused of defrauding 139 Australians of AUD 8 million through a fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme.
Otukpa was taken into custody at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos on Friday, December 6, 2024, after returning from the United States.
According to a statement by Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Otukpa operated under five aliases—Ford Thompson, Oscar Donald Tyler, Michael Haye, Jose Vitto, and Kristin Davidson.
He allegedly used social media platforms to entice victims into investing in a fake cryptocurrency venture known as Liquid Asset Group.
“The proceeds of the alleged crimes were funneled through a global cryptocurrency exchange platform into his accounts,” Oyewale disclosed. He added that Otukpa would face legal charges once investigations are complete.