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A Nigerian man, Abuchi Johnkennedy Onyenecherem, and a Thai woman, Ampha ‘Pink’ Phatthap, who were reportedly involved in online ‘romance scams’ that saw their victims swindled of at least B11 million (N134,474,028.70), have been arrested in Thailand.

According to a statement by the police on Thursday, September 30, the suspects were apprehended at a rented room in Srisoonthorn, Thalang, Phuket on Tuesday, September 28. Officers explained that Ampha had created fake identities online, via Facebook, LINE and other online platforms, and deceived victims by enticing them into a romantic relationship, and then having them send money to pay for living expenses, gifts or to send items back to them by post.

Ampha confessed that over six months she had tricked her victims into sending more than B11mn to a specified account. She was then instructed by a network in Bangkok to transfer the funds to other bank accounts. She further confessed she was paid for her role in the scams. Immigration officers said Mr Abuchi had been staying in the country illegally and is being investigated for his possible role in the romance scam.