THE Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Taskforce has apprehended and prosecuted six individuals suspected of defrauding unsuspecting members of the public at Iyana-Ipaja under the guise of a fake “lucky number” Android phone giveaway.
The suspects — Amaike Nelson (43) of Tiv Lane, Alaba Rago; Kenneth Opuana (56); Oguntade Olusegun (63); Ogologo Obi (29); Goodluck Abel (28); and Oluwafunmilayo Adebimpe (19) — were arrested following credible intelligence that linked them to a street-level scam operation targeting passersby.
One of their victims, a 19-year-old student identified as Rukayat Kamilu, reported that she was approached by an elderly man, later identified as Oguntade Olusegun, who feigned ignorance and solicited her help in selecting a “lucky number.” The game, however, was a setup. Upon losing, her phone was confiscated by the group, who then demanded a ransom of ₦100,000 for its return before fleeing the scene.
Acting swiftly on the report, operatives of the Taskforce tracked down and arrested the suspects. A search at the scene revealed numerous empty packages of various Android phone brands, believed to be props used to lure and deceive victims.
The agency noted that the operation was in line with its ongoing efforts to rid Lagos of criminal elements, particularly schemes that exploit residents’ vulnerability during tough economic times.
