In a recent investigation carried out by operatives of the NPF-NCCC, Ummukulthum Basha, a dedicated Cryptocurrency enthusiast, found herself entangled in a series of events related to the Kochiken Crypto project. Having been lured and actively served as a moderator for over three months in the Telegram group @kochikenbsc, the project’s CEO, Sean Andres Delacruz a US citizen became a central figure in her cryptocurrency journey.
After experiencing a significant loss of 20,000 USDT in a fraudulent cryptocurrency trading scheme, Basha sought assistance from Sean Andres Delacruz for recovery. Assurances were made, promising retrieval through intensive trading with the remaining 180,000 USD.
However, subsequent actions raised concerns as two transfers were made to Sean Andres’ wallet, where a substantial portion was promptly moved to KuCoin through another cryptocurrency platform. A Solid partnership with the KuCoin platform in line with global best practices unveiled the same Sean Andres Delacruz as the mastermind behind this criminal act.
A discrete investigation brought to light Sean Andres Delacruz’s apparent intent to defraud Basha of her 180,000 USDT by diverting funds through intricate transactions while actively avoiding KuCoin’s verification process. While collaboration with local and international organizations has resulted in the safe recovery of 179,372.6 USDT, effort to bring the suspect to the books is ongoing.
It is pertinent to acknowledge the timely collaboration of KuCoin, which played a crucial role in ensuring the protection of cryptocurrency assets and upholding the integrity of the investigation. Consequently, members of the public are urged to be weary of such platforms and promptly report suspicious engagements and platforms to the police.
Finally, the Nigeria Police Force wishes to raise the alertness of the general public to the proliferation of High-yield investment programs that often turn out to be scams. While stressing the importance of exercising restraint in patronizing these schemes, members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious financial transactions or activities to the Police through the Centre’s e-reporting Portal at https://incb.npf.gov.ng.
