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Massive Online Fraud Uncovered: Lagos Woman Arrested for Defrauding Over N500 Million in Fake Apple Device Sales
The Lagos State Police Command has successfully detained a 35-year-old woman named Modupeola Bamisade, who stands accused of masterminding a sophisticated online scam that victimized more than 100 individuals, resulting in losses exceeding N500 million. The fraudulent scheme centered on the deceptive sale of Apple gadgets such as iPhones and iPads offered at unrealistically low prices.
Modus Operandi of the Fraud
Bamisade’s operation involved aggressively marketing Apple products online, luring buyers with discounts as steep as 50% off standard retail prices. To bolster her credibility and expand her customer base, she enlisted the help of popular social media personalities who endorsed these deals, thereby attracting a wide audience of unsuspecting consumers.
Despite collecting payments from numerous buyers, the promised devices were never delivered. Instead, Bamisade resorted to a variety of excuses to postpone or completely evade shipment, leaving many victims financially drained and disillusioned.
Details of the Investigation and Capture
Insights from law enforcement sources, shared with Punch on January 7, 2026, reveal that during questioning, Bamisade confessed to using influencer marketing as a key strategy to attract clients. Her arrest was precipitated by a tip-off from one of the influencers involved, who became wary after receiving numerous grievances from defrauded customers.
“This suspect has been operating this scam for an extended period, successfully deceiving over 100 people and amassing more than N500 million,” the police source stated. “Her collaboration with social media influencers was instrumental in gaining the trust of buyers.”
Voices of the Defrauded
In the wake of the arrest, several victims came forward at the police station to identify Bamisade. One individual recounted paying an upfront sum of one million naira, only to be met with continuous delays and empty assurances. “She repeatedly claimed the phone had arrived and would be delivered shortly, but nothing ever happened. At one point, someone even impersonated a delivery rider over the phone, but no delivery was made,” the victim lamented.
Escalating Issue of Online Electronics Scams
This incident underscores a rising trend both within Nigeria and internationally, where cybercriminals exploit online marketplaces and social media platforms to scam consumers. According to recent statistics from the Nigerian Cybercrime Unit, online retail fraud has surged by 30% over the past year, highlighting the critical need for caution when purchasing expensive electronics online.
Industry experts recommend that buyers thoroughly verify the legitimacy of sellers, remain skeptical of deals that appear too advantageous, and utilize secure payment channels to reduce vulnerability to fraud.
Final Thoughts and Ongoing Efforts
The Lagos State Police Command is actively pursuing further investigations into this case and encourages the public to report any suspicious online vendors. This episode serves as a stark reminder of the perils associated with online shopping scams and the importance of exercising due diligence in all digital transactions.
