A suspected fraudster running fake admission platforms for Nigeria Police Academy aspirants has been arrested by Ondo Police after cybercrime tracking.
The Ondo State Police Command has cracked down on a fraudulent admission syndicate targeting the Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC), Wudil, Kano, with the arrest of a key suspect believed to be one of the masterminds.
The suspect, Samson Olamilekan Owolade, who hails from Ipogun in Akure, Ondo State, was apprehended on Thursday after police received credible intelligence linking him to a sophisticated online scam operation.
According to investigators, Owolade had been exploiting the ambitions of young Nigerians seeking admission into the prestigious Academy by luring them with promises of automatic placement in exchange for money.
Findings from police investigations show that Owolade managed a WhatsApp group named “NPA RC12 Guide and Updates”, which had grown to more than 370 members.
At least 100 unsuspecting applicants are believed to have already been duped by the fraudulent scheme.
He also ran a Facebook page under the name “POLAC UPDATES GROUP”, which he used not only to circulate false information but also to publish defamatory content against the Nigeria Police Academy.
These platforms served as the main channels through which the suspect deceived aspirants, giving them false hope of securing admission.
Acting on a tip-off, operatives of the Cybercrime Unit moved swiftly and successfully tracked Owolade within an hour of receiving the report.
The operation led to his arrest and the recovery of several incriminating items, including mobile phones, laptops, SIM cards, and internet routers allegedly used to coordinate the fraudulent activities.
Police sources disclosed that during preliminary interrogation, the suspect confessed to his involvement in the crime.
He will be transferred to the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, where further investigations and possible prosecution will take place.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, confirmed the arrest.
He assured the public that the command is committed to dismantling the entire network of fraudsters behind the syndicate, noting that efforts are already underway to track down other accomplices.
DSP Ayanlade also used the opportunity to issue a strong warning to prospective candidates and their parents, urging them to disregard unauthorized sources of information about admission into the Police Academy.
He stressed that admission into POLAC is strictly merit-based and processed solely through official and transparent procedures.
The Ondo Police Command reaffirmed its dedication to protecting the integrity of the Nigeria Police Academy and shielding vulnerable young Nigerians from exploitation.
The statement emphasized that the Force will not tolerate individuals or groups attempting to tarnish the image of its institutions or dash the hopes of determined youths aspiring to serve their nation in law enforcement.
“This arrest sends a clear message,” the spokesperson added, “that the Police remain vigilant and will continue to defend the credibility of our training institutions, while ensuring that fraudsters face the full weight of the law.”