₦159m Visa Scam: NSCDC Arraigns Woman for Defrauding Cleric, 65 Others
The Ekiti State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested and arraigned a woman, Abigail Brains Timothy, for allegedly defrauding a cleric and 65 others of ₦159 million under the guise of securing travel documents for them.
NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Tolulope disclosed in a statement that Timothy was arrested in Benin on May 25, 2025, following multiple complaints from victims. She has since been arraigned in court on charges of obtaining money under false pretence.
According to Afolabi, the suspect deceived one Pastor Adewusi Tibatope Samuel by claiming she had the ability and contacts to procure visas and work permits for 65 people he introduced to her as clients. “Under this false representation, she induced him to release the aforementioned sum to her over a period of time which was meant to cover the visa fee and work permit,” the statement said.
NSCDC’s State Intelligence and Investigation Department carried out a detailed probe. Investigators found that the suspect had no real capacity or intention to deliver on her promises. After the investigation, the case was charged to a competent court in Ado-Ekiti. The court ordered her remanded at the Correctional Centre pending further trial.
The NSCDC assured the public it will ensure proper prosecution in line with Nigerian laws and international standards. The command also restated its commitment to protecting lives, property, and national infrastructure.
Reacting to the development, NSCDC State Commandant Matthew Enya warned the public against falling for fake travel agents. He urged people to report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies rather than taking the law into their own hands.
Source | Tribune online