Nigeria Extradites Alleged Cyber Fraud Suspect “Putsammy” to United States
- May 15
- 1 min read
The Nigerian government has handed over an alleged cybercrime suspect, Samuel Ugberease, widely known by the aliases “Putsammy” and “Putput,” to authorities in the United States over an alleged multi-million-dollar romance fraud scheme.
According to law enforcement authorities, the suspect is accused of coordinating an online fraud network that allegedly targeted victims in the United States and siphoned more than $1.5 million through deceptive online relationships and wire transfers.
Investigators said the alleged operation ran for several years, during which fake identities and fabricated online profiles were reportedly used to lure victims into fraudulent financial arrangements. Authorities claimed that at least one victim lost over $1.5 million to the scheme.
Ugberease was reportedly apprehended at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos in December 2025 following an international arrest request issued through INTERPOL by U.S. authorities.
Following legal proceedings, a Federal High Court in Lagos approved his extradition under Nigeria’s extradition framework, clearing the way for his transfer to the United States where he is expected to face prosecution.
The Nigeria Police Force said the extradition reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen international collaboration against cybercrime and cross-border financial fraud. Officials also stressed the importance of cooperation between Nigerian security agencies and foreign law enforcement bodies in tracking and dismantling organised cybercriminal networks operating internationally.
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