The Nigeria Police have apprehended a prime suspect and three accomplices in connection with an alleged cybercrime involving the unauthorized modification of computer systems and the diversion of funds exceeding N607 million from Patricia Technologies’ cryptocurrency account.
Patricia Technologies, a cryptocurrency trading platform, had reported the incident to the Inspector General of Police in 2022, leading to a thorough investigation by the National Cybercrime Center of the Nigeria Police Force.
The arrested prime suspect, a notable politician and former gubernatorial aspirant in Cross River State during the 2023 general election, was implicated in a criminal conspiracy that resulted in the unlawful diversion of funds from Patricia Technologies’ Flutterwave account to his bank account.
The investigation revealed unauthorized modifications of computer systems and network data.
Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that the suspects were arrested after a comprehensive investigation into the cybercrime.
The incident had caused financial losses to depositors and led to the temporary suspension of the Patricia cryptocurrency trading platform.
Hanu Fejiro, CEO of Patricia Technologies, expressed relief at the conclusion of the police investigation, emphasizing that the arrests vindicate the company.
He stated, “Nigerians can now see that we have always been a truthful, fair, and responsible organization with the best interest of our customers at heart.”
The arrests bring closure to a challenging period for Patricia Technologies and its stakeholders.
