International Scam Ring Dismantled in Joint Operation by Japanese and Nigerian Police

Japanese and Nigerian Police Dismantle International Scam Ring

In a joint operation, Japanese and Nigerian police have successfully dismantled a criminal ring responsible for social media investment and romance scams that defrauded victims in Japan. This marks the first instance where overseas suspects have been apprehended based on information provided by Japanese authorities regarding domestic fraud cases.

Arrests Made in Both Countries

Nigerian authorities arrested 11 Nigerian nationals whose bank accounts were used to receive the victims' funds. Meanwhile, Japanese police apprehended nine Japanese individuals for their roles in converting the stolen money into cryptocurrency.

Victims Targeted Through Social Media

The perpetrators posed as astronauts, military personnel, and doctors on social media platforms, soliciting investments and other forms of financial assistance. In romance scams, victims were led to believe they were in a genuine relationship and were asked to pay for expenses related to the perpetrator's supposed relocation to Japan for marriage.

Funds Traced and Suspects Identified

When tracing the victims' funds, the NPA discovered money was converted into cryptocurrency and ultimately deposited into accounts held by Nigerian nationals through overseas exchanges. This information led to the arrest of the 11 individuals in Nigeria. The suspects reportedly used the stolen money to purchase real estate.

Japanese Suspects Assisted in Conversion

In a separate operation, police in Gifu, Nagasaki, and three other Japanese prefectures arrested nine Japanese individuals for their role in converting the funds victims sent to their bank accounts into cryptocurrency. These suspects are accused of following instructions from the scam organizers they connected with on social media, some of whom were believed to be based in Nigeria. In return, they received 5 percent of the converted funds as a reward.

International Cooperation Key to Success

The joint investigation, codenamed "Operation Jackal," was coordinated by Interpol and involved 21 nations, including Japan, the United States, and countries from Europe and Asia. This collaboration highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational crime.

Rise in Social Media Scams

Investment and romance scams on social media have seen a significant rise in Japan since 2023. In 2024, the number of reported cases reached 10,164, a 2.6-fold increase from the previous year, with damages totaling 126.8 billion yen, a 2.8-fold increase. Romance scams have become particularly rampant in recent months, especially those involving dating apps.