Ghanaian, Nigerian nationals face trial in India over $94,000 fraud scheme

At least seven men from Ghana and Nigeria will face trial in India. They are accused of defrauding over 350 victims of more than $94,000. The Punjab State Police made the arrests during a sting operation.

The suspects, aged 25 to 35, operated from a rented apartment in Noida. They allegedly set up a fake call center for their scams. Police seized 79 smartphones, four laptops—including two Apple MacBooks—and 99 SIM cards.

They also found documents related to 31 fake bank accounts. Authorities estimate the value of the seized items at 30 lakh Rupee. Related bank transactions linked to the group total about 15 crore, or over $94,000.

Senior Superintendent of Police Harmandeep Singh Hans confirmed the arrests. He stated that the suspects used fake social media profiles to befriend victims. They promised expensive gifts but later claimed customs held parcels, demanding money for clearance fees.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Rupinderdeep Kaur Sohi led the operation. She noted that a Nigerian woman rented the house where they operated. Her whereabouts are currently unknown.

The suspects opened bank accounts in private banks as part of their scheme. Investigators are looking into the names on these accounts and how they obtained SIM cards. The scam targeted both Indian citizens and fellow Nigerians with fake job offers in India.

The suspects have appeared before a court in Mohali and are now in police custody for two days. This case follows another involving Nigerian nationals accused of drug trafficking in Telangana. Investigations revealed they used fake identities and expired visas for illegal operations.