The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a fake doctor, Igwe Gift Okechukwu, involved in criminal conspiracy, organ trafficking, fraud, cybercrime, stealing, impersonation, cheating, and identity theft.
The suspect, parading himself as Henry Ovie, a neurologist newly transferred to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, tricked a point of sale (POS) operator, Anita Chinwe Mathias, into entering a code on her POS machine
One of the most heinous charges against Okechukwu is his involvement in organ trafficking. This illicit trade preys on vulnerable individuals, often leading to devastating consequences for the victims. Organ trafficking not only exploits the desperation of those in need but also undermines the integrity of medical institutions and erodes public trust in the healthcare system. The arrest sheds light on the pressing need for heightened vigilance against such criminal enterprises.
The suspect’s involvement in fraud, cybercrime, stealing, impersonation, cheating, and identity theft paints a grim picture of the multifaceted nature of his criminal operations. The use of modern technology, including cybercrime, underscores the evolving tactics employed by criminals to exploit unsuspecting victims. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and public awareness to thwart such malicious activities.
Beyond the legal ramifications, it is crucial to acknowledge the human toll of Okechukwu’s actions. Victims of organ trafficking often face dire health consequences, while those affected by fraud and identity theft endure emotional and financial distress. The arrest serves as an opportunity to reflect on the vulnerabilities in our systems and the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect individuals from falling prey to such criminal enterprises.
The suspect, parading himself as Henry Ovie, a neurologist newly transferred to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, tricked a point of sale (POS) operator, Anita Chinwe Mathias, into entering a code on her POS machine.
As a result, the entire sum of twenty-one million naira (N21,000,000) was withdrawn from her account, leading to a police report.
Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed the details of the arrest during a press conference in Abuja.
He outlined the suspect’s modus operandi, where he built trust with the victim, sent a significant amount to her account, and later tricked her into entering a code that facilitated the fraudulent withdrawal.
According to Adejobi, Anita, the complainant, narrated that the suspect used multiple identities and phone numbers, posing as Igwe Richard and Ovie Henry.
“She proceeded to state that on September 11, 2023, the suspect tricked her into entering a code on her POS machine, which she did due to the trust she had for him.
“After the suspect left her place, she noticed that all the money in her POS account was withdrawn, which amounted to the sum of twenty million naira (N21,000,000), and all efforts to reach out to the suspect proved abortive.
“She also went to the Federal Medical Center, where the suspect claimed to be working, to ask about him, and she was told that none of their doctors bear such a name. Immediately, she reported the case to the Force Criminal Investigation Department in Abuja, where intelligent officers swung into action to arrest the suspect,” the statement reads in part.
Investigations revealed that the fake doctor had changed his phone number and relocated from Owerri to Lafia, Nasarawa State, where he was subsequently tracked and arrested.
It was further uncovered that the suspect is involved in organ trafficking, with links to a contact in Toronto, Canada.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reiterated the commitment of the force to combating crimes and ensuring the safety and security of communities.
The IGP assured Nigerians that an extensive investigation is ongoing, and all perpetrators involved in this heinous act will be brought to justice and charged accordingly.
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