EFCC Nabs Two Over N35.3m Fake Investment Scam in Enugu
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Enugu Zonal Directorate, have arrested two suspects over their alleged involvement in a N35.3 million fake investment scheme that reportedly defrauded 32 victims.
The suspects, identified as Samuel Inalegwu Okpala and Ezelibe Emmanuel Nzube, were apprehended for allegedly conspiring with one Chibuike Vincent DePaul Izundu, who is currently at large, to swindle unsuspecting investors through a fraudulent scheme operated under the guise of a company known as Paybeta Digital Limited.
According to petitions received by the anti-graft agency, the victims were lured into investing a total of N35,395,000 after being promised mouth-watering returns ranging from 15 to 80 percent, depending on the duration of their investments. Representatives of the company reportedly claimed to be dealers in recharge cards, electricity units, and DSTV and GOTV subscriptions, presenting the business as legitimate and highly profitable.
The petitioners alleged that shortly after collecting the funds, the suspects disappeared, and all attempts to recover the money proved unsuccessful.
Preliminary investigations by the EFCC revealed that Izundu allegedly collaborated with Okpala to channel the fraudulent proceeds through Okpala’s account linked to RFB Global Resources Nigeria Limited. Upon his arrest, operatives recovered a bank token in Okpala’s possession, which was allegedly meant to be delivered to Nzube on the instruction of the fleeing principal suspect.
Further forensic analysis of the suspects’ mobile phones reportedly uncovered incriminating messages tying them to Izundu’s activities. Investigators also discovered that Nzube allegedly engages in internet fraud, with a specialty in romance scams.
The EFCC disclosed that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity of the Commission, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
