The Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Lagos is investigating an alleged ₦16.17 million pregnancy scam involving a 22-year-old woman accused of deceiving her fiancé into paying for a fake pregnancy.
Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Simeon Akpanudom disclosed the case on Thursday while briefing journalists on the FCID Annex's operational activities between March 30 and June 25.
According to the AIG, the investigation began after the complainant filed a petition accusing his fiancée of falsely claiming she was pregnant and repeatedly collecting money from him for antenatal care, medical treatment, and other pregnancy-related expenses.
Police said the woman allegedly obtained a total of ₦16.17 million from the complainant.
"Investigations revealed that the pregnancy was allegedly terminated at about five months' gestation at a private medical facility in Ajah, Lagos," Akpanudom said.
The police said the suspect and a nurse attached to the medical facility have been remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre. Investigators are also searching for the medical director of the facility, who is wanted in connection with the case.
The AIG disclosed the development while highlighting the FCID Annex's recent operations against economic crimes, fraud, human trafficking, and attacks on critical national infrastructure.
He also announced the recovery of 331 cartons of counterfeit Baby Secret Cream products during an investigation into alleged illegal importation and counterfeiting following a petition by Flawless Cosmetics.
In a separate operation, detectives arrested suspected members of a syndicate accused of vandalising telecommunications installations and other critical infrastructure across Lagos State. Items recovered from the suspects included a locally made pistol, a live cartridge, solar batteries, solar panels, cutting tools, ropes, tricycles, and vehicles allegedly used in carrying out the crimes.
Akpanudom further disclosed that INTERPOL operatives attached to the FCID rescued 45 victims of human trafficking during the review period. Four suspected traffickers were arrested, while four individuals on international watch lists and Red Notices were apprehended. Two suspects arrested abroad were also returned to Nigeria.
According to the AIG, the FCID Annex received 1,762 petitions and complaints between March 30 and June 25, with 56 cases concluded and processed in various courts.
He urged members of the public to continue providing credible and actionable information to support crime prevention and law enforcement efforts.
