The Peel Regional Police have arrested a 28-year-old Nigerian, Chimezie Nwabueze, for alleged romance scam.
Police confirmed the arrest in a public statement published on their official website on April 28, 2025.
Nwabueze, based in Toronto, allegedly defrauded two individuals of $610,382 through fake romantic relationships online.
Officers apprehended him after a thorough investigation into internet romance scams targeting vulnerable individuals.
Investigators said Nwabueze posed as a wealthy oil rig worker stationed in the Middle East.
He allegedly used dating platforms to build trust and deceive unsuspecting victims.
Authorities reported that all interactions occurred via online messaging services, not in person.
Nwabueze allegedly created convincing stories about emergencies and fake business setbacks.
He repeatedly requested money, promising to reimburse victims after meeting them physically.
According to investigators, the victims never met him in real life.
He allegedly claimed he was stranded overseas and needed urgent funds for business issues.
Police stated that once victims questioned him, he cut off all communication.
The total amount lost by the two victims stands at $610,382, police confirmed.
Authorities also said none of the defrauded funds have been recovered.
Police charged Nwabueze with multiple offences, including fraud over $5,000 and money laundering.
He also faces charges of possessing proceeds of crime and participating in organized crime.
Investigators suspect he worked with other fraudsters to carry out the scam.
They also believe he deliberately targeted emotionally and financially vulnerable individuals.
Nwabueze reportedly led a group involved in international online romance scams.
Peel Police urged the public to report any suspicious online dating activity.
They emphasized that romance scams cause emotional and financial harm to victims.
Despite the serious allegations, Nwabueze was released with an undertaking to appear in court.
He is expected to face trial in Ontario, Canada, in the coming weeks.
Authorities are currently searching for more victims connected to the case.
Online romance fraud continues to rise across North America, officials warned.
Reports estimate victims lose over $1 billion yearly to such online scams.
Police said Nigerian nationals are frequently linked to international internet fraud networks.
The Nigerian High Commission has not yet commented on Nwabueze’s arrest.
Investigations remain active, and more arrests are expected in the near future.
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