On Monday, the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes
Commission restituted a sum of $26,000 USD, equivalent to
about N23 million, to Christine Brown, a 70-year-old British national who fell
victim to an Internet fraudster.
Having fallen prey to a romance scam orchestrated by an
online fraudster, the elderly woman had lodged a complaint with the Commission.
Recounting her unfortunate experience, Brown revealed that she was deceived by
an individual posing as John Barrowman, an entertainer and American citizen.
Unaware of his fraudulent intentions, their relationship took a romantic turn.
Brown shared that her supposed online partner began coercing
her into sending money, which she unwittingly transferred through wire
transfers, Bitcoin, and gift cards. It was only when she became suspicious of
his motives that she alerted the EFCC through a formal complaint.
Prompted by the petition, the Commission took swift action
and successfully reclaimed her funds. The presentation of the retrieved money
was conducted by Kanu Idagu, the Zonal Commander of EFCC Benin.
During the handover of the recovered funds, Idagu reaffirmed
the Commission’s commitment to its mandate of enhancing societal well-being. He
stated, “We are actively engaged in ensuring that fraud victims are
appropriately compensated whenever feasible, and we will persist in these
efforts.” Idagu also cautioned the public to exercise caution in their
online activities, as fraudsters roam the digital realm in search of
unsuspecting targets.
In response, Brown conveyed her gratitude to the Commission
for its resolute efforts, which she acknowledged had provided her with some
relief after her life savings were swindled by the fraudster.
