"Don't Fall Victim: NDLEA Cautions Against Impostors' Fraudulent Tactics Targeting Families Overseas"

In a bid to safeguard the public against a growing fraudulent scheme, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised an alert regarding impostors posing as its officers. The agency's Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, unveiled the scheme, which preys on individuals with relatives residing abroad, particularly those arriving at Nigerian international airports.

According to Babafemi, the scam unfolds with impostors contacting unsuspecting citizens to falsely inform them of the arrest of their relatives upon their arrival in Nigeria. These impersonators claim that the detained individuals were apprehended with illicit drugs and then proceed to demand substantial sums of money as payment to secure their release from NDLEA custody.

Highlighting the agency's proactive measures, Babafemi noted instances where NDLEA officials intervened and thwarted similar attempts after receiving distress calls from concerned family members. In a recent case, a Nigerian man based in the United States found himself at the center of the scam when his photo circulated alongside audio recordings purportedly featuring an NDLEA officer negotiating a ransom for his release.

Despite the convincing nature of the audio recordings and circulated images, NDLEA investigations conclusively revealed that neither the depicted individual nor the officer engaged in the purported conversation had any association with the agency. Babafemi strongly cautioned against yielding to the demands of these scammers, emphasizing the need for vigilance and urging individuals not to disclose travel plans to prevent exploitation by criminal elements.

The NDLEA has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities or encounters to law enforcement authorities. Through such concerted efforts, the agency aims to curb the proliferation of fraudulent schemes and protect citizens from falling victim to scams orchestrated by impostors posing as NDLEA officers.