Nigeria Extradites Cybercrime Suspect 'Putsammy' To US Over Alleged $1.5Million Fraud

The Nigerian government has extradited an alleged cybercrime suspect, Samuel Ugberease, popularly known as “Putsammy” and “Putput,” wanted for alleged $1.5 million fraud, to the United States. Ugberease is facing allegations of masterminding an international romance scam and wire fraud operation that reportedly swindled victims out of not less than $1.5 million. According to the Nigeria Police Force, the extradition followed a joint operation involving INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja and United States law enforcement authorities, who had been tracking the suspect over alleged fraudulent online activities linked to multiple victims in America. Police investigations reportedly uncovered that between 2014 and 2018, Ugberease and members of his syndicate allegedly created fake identities and dating profiles to deceive women in the United States into fraudulent financial relationships. Authorities said one of the victims was allegedly defrauded of more than $1.5million through the scheme. The suspect was arrested in December 2025 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos after an INTERPOL Red Notice was issued against him at the request of American authorities. Following his arrest, the Federal High Court in Lagos reportedly granted an application for his extradition in accordance with Nigeria’s extradition laws, paving the way for his transfer to the United States to face prosecution. The Nigeria Police Force said the extradition underscored its resolve to intensify the fight against cybercrime and strengthen collaboration with international security agencies in tackling transnational financial fraud. The police added that cooperation between Nigerian authorities and foreign law enforcement agencies remained critical in dismantling organised cybercrime networks operating across borders.