Cross River Police Bust Massive Job Scam Ring, Hundreds Duped Exposed

According to Ireporter Online, the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 6 Command in Calabar, has dismantled a major criminal network involved in fraudulent job offers, illegal migration schemes, and kidnapping in Cross River State.

The operation, carried out by the Zonal Criminal Investigation Department, rescued over 100 victims and exposed a sophisticated syndicate preying on Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad. Officers reportedly rejected a ₦50 million bribe intended to halt the investigation.

DSP Jefferson Osupe Anisma, the Zonal Public Relations Officer, stated on February 14, 2026, that the raid followed intelligence reports detailing the network’s activities. Investigations revealed that the group specifically targeted young Nigerians, using deception and psychological manipulation to convince victims to sell their belongings and transfer large sums of money. Promises of visas, foreign citizenship, and high-paying jobs overseas were used to lure victims into the scheme.

Following instructions from the Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 6, Auwal Musa Mohammad, operatives led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Udu Moses Ogechi executed coordinated raids at multiple locations early in the morning on February 14. Authorities described the suspects as a well-organized group exploiting the aspirations of youths eager to relocate abroad.

Victims were reportedly moved to various locations within Cross River State, where they were closely monitored and coerced into bringing in additional victims. The syndicate also staged online content, including photos in rented apartments, to create the illusion that victims had successfully moved overseas.

Key suspects were apprehended, and rescued individuals have been transferred to the Cross River State Government for care, documentation, and support. Police confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the network still at large. The Assistant Inspector-General commended the officers for their dedication and emphasized the command’s commitment to combating criminal networks that exploit vulnerable citizens.