Lagos Police Arrest 22-Year-Old Cyber Blackmailer Who Posed as a Woman Online to Extort Men — Over N4 Million Recovered

 

In a dramatic and commendable display of modern policing, detectives from the Area F Command of the Lagos State Police Command have successfully arrested a 22-year-old suspected cybercriminal, Malik Opeyemi, for engaging in online impersonation and blackmail. This young man allegedly pretended to be a woman on various social media platforms to lure unsuspecting men into compromising situations, particularly nude video calls, which he then used as tools of extortion.

According to investigations carried out by the police, this disturbing trend of cyber sextortion has not only ruined the lives and reputations of several victims but has also proven to be financially lucrative for the suspect. Since the beginning of his illicit activities in January 2025, Malik Opeyemi has reportedly extorted over Four Million Naira (₦4,000,000) from more than thirty victims.

A Detailed Account of the Crime

The suspect's arrest was triggered by a report filed by one of his victims at the Area F Police Command. The complainant revealed that he had been manipulated into engaging in a nude video call with someone he believed to be a woman. Shortly after the call, the victim began receiving threats that the footage would be released to the public or shared with family and friends unless he paid a ransom.

The police quickly responded by launching a full-scale investigation. Detectives traced the suspect to Oyo State, where he had been operating from, and he was subsequently arrested on May 16, 2025. After his apprehension, he was transferred to Lagos State for further investigation and prosecution.

The Lagos State Police Command discovered during interrogation and digital forensic analysis that Malik used two smartphones—a Samsung and an Itel Android device—to carry out his illicit operations. On these phones, detectives found numerous explicit images and videos of his victims, confirming the extent and seriousness of his crimes.

How the Blackmail Scheme Worked

According to police sources, Malik Opeyemi had developed a calculated and sinister strategy to exploit his victims emotionally and financially. By assuming the online identity of a seductive woman, he was able to manipulate men into believing they were in a private and consensual interaction.

Once his target was hooked, he would persuade them to engage in nude video calls or share intimate photos. He would then save the videos or screenshots and use them to blackmail the victims, demanding money in exchange for not publishing the sensitive content online.

One of the most shocking discoveries was that he imposed a so-called “subscription fee” of ₦25,000 per victim, which he demanded regularly. Victims were told that this payment was to maintain access to the supposed woman's private photos and videos. In reality, it was a tool for psychological manipulation and sustained blackmail.

Financial Gains at the Expense of Others

By the time the police arrested him, the suspect had already made more than ₦4 million from this criminal operation. This sum, derived from over 30 victims, highlights how profitable cybercrime can become when not swiftly tackled. Many of the victims, out of fear, shame, or concern for their reputation, quietly paid the blackmailer rather than reporting the matter to the police.

Cybercrime experts point out that many Nigerians, especially men, often fall victim to such traps due to the rise of romance scams, sextortion, and catfishing on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and even WhatsApp.

Items Recovered and Legal Action

During the course of the investigation, the Lagos State Police recovered the two mobile phones Malik used to commit the crimes. A forensic analysis of the devices showed a disturbing collection of sexually explicit content involving his victims. This evidence served as critical support in building a solid case against him.

Following his arrest and investigation, the suspect was formally charged to court. Legal proceedings are currently ongoing, and justice is expected to be served in line with Nigeria’s cybercrime laws.

Lagos Police Reassures Public: Cybercriminals Will Be Brought to Justice

In response to this development, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest and applauded the efforts of the investigating officers. He stressed the importance of the Command’s resolve to eliminate cybercrime and protect residents from digital threats.

According to him:

"The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, assured the public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating cybercrime and safeguarding residents from digital exploitation."

He added:

"He urged citizens to remain vigilant in their online activities and promptly report any suspicious behavior, reaffirming the Command’s dedication to ensuring that all offenders are brought to justice."

This statement from the police leadership highlights the seriousness of cyber-related offenses and the growing effort by law enforcement agencies in Nigeria to adapt to the changing nature of crime in the digital age.

Public Reactions and Lessons Learned

This incident has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many Nigerians expressing shock over how young people are turning to cybercrime to make money. Some blamed poor digital literacy, economic hardship, and the lack of effective cyber laws and enforcement in the past as contributors to the rise in internet-based crimes.

However, experts say that education and awareness are essential tools in preventing such crimes. Members of the public are advised not to share sensitive or explicit content online with individuals they have not met physically, no matter how convincing or trustworthy they may seem.

How to Protect Yourself From Online Sextortion and Romance Scams

As part of NaijaRush’s commitment to helping Nigerians stay safe online, here are some crucial cybersecurity tips to avoid becoming a victim of online blackmail:

1. Never share explicit photos or videos online—especially with strangers or people you’ve never met in person.

2. Always verify identities—do not trust social media profiles blindly.

3. Be cautious with friend requests—especially those that seem too flirtatious or suspicious.

4. Use privacy settings on your social media accounts to control who sees your posts and who can contact you.

5. Do not pay a blackmailer. Instead, report the crime to the nearest police station or cybercrime unit.

6. Educate yourself and others about common online scams.

Conclusion

The arrest of Malik Opeyemi, the 22-year-old suspected cyber blackmailer who impersonated a woman online to extort men, is a stark reminder of the risks that come with engaging in unsafe online behavior. The swift action by the Lagos State Police Command, the recovery of vital evidence, and the legal proceedings now underway represent a strong warning to other potential cybercriminals.

Let this be a wake-up call to all Nigerians—especially young people—to avoid falling into the trap of cybercrime, whether as victims or perpetrators. Digital safety should be a priority for everyone, and the only way to stay protected is through awareness, vigilance, and responsible online behavior.

Stay safe online, and remember—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.