Nigerian in cop net for trying to dupe businessman

The Matunga police recently arrested a 37-year-old Nigerian national who was part of an international phishing fraud syndicate. The syndicate was attempting to dupe a film producer-cum-builder by making him pay Rs3.72 lakh in order to pocket US dollars 48 million.

According to the police, complainant Gopal Agrawal, 59, frequently goes abroad for his business. He also does most of his deals over phone and stays in contact with his clients through email.

On March 26, 2012, Agrawal received an email from one Harry Brown, claiming to be a resident of United Kingdom (UK). Brown stated that he wanted to invest in India and sought Agrawal's help in setting up his business. Later, Agarwal received several emails from Brown regarding his 50 million dollar investment plans.

"Later, he received an email stating Brown had died. Brown, it said, at the end wished that 48 million US dollars be transferred to Agrawal's account through RBI. They repeatedly pushed Agrawal to pay Rs3.72 lakh to get the dollars. Suspecting foul play, Agrawal lodged a police complaint on April 2," a police officer said.

With the help of Agrawal, the police on same day managed to arrest Wilson Renny, a Nigerian national involved in the case. "We are now on the lookout for other members of the gang," the officer added.