Gabriel Onyeka, a Nigerian national residing in India, has been arrested by Indian authorities for allegedly defrauding an Indian businessman of approximately ₹1.25 crore (around N250 million) through an online scam. The arrest took place at Onyeka’s residence in Kalyan, Maharashtra.
According to police reports, Onyeka posed as a senior executive from a reputable pharmaceutical company and convinced the victim to invest in Plukenetia volubilis, an Ayurvedic product. He offered the businessman a dealership and lucrative orders, persuading him to buy samples from a fake supplier controlled by Onyeka. After the initial purchase, individuals claiming to be quality control agents pressured the businessman to make additional payments, promising high returns. This led to a total loss of ₹1.25 crore.
Authorities traced Onyeka using the mobile number he used during the scam. During the arrest, police recovered four mobile phones, one containing a WhatsApp screenshot linking Onyeka directly to the fraud.
Further investigations revealed Onyeka had been living in India illegally since 2012, having overstayed his medical visa. He was previously booked for visa overstay by Mumbai Police.
Indian police are continuing investigations to identify other members of the syndicate. Onyeka and his accomplice are set to be arraigned before an Indian High Court.
Experts warn that scams often prey on individuals seeking quick profits and urge caution in online business transactions.
