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Nigerian authorities have apprehended Linus Williams, a billionaire crypto mogul with the pseudonym BLord, as part of a sweeping investigation into financial malfeasance and cybercrime.
Abuja was the setting for a dramatic takedown on Tuesday as authorities apprehended billionaire cryptocurrency mogul BLord, whose real name is Linus Williams, amid damning allegations of fraudulent cryptocurrency dealings, terrorist financing, and facilitating online scams.
Nigeria Police Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi told our correspondent in a one-on-one interview that the arrest of BLord came on the heels of several complaints lodged against his companies, accusing them of engaging in illicit financial practices.
The police spokesperson guaranteed a meticulous and in-depth probe, promising that all aspects of the case would be thoroughly examined and addressed.
Adejobi said, “Yes, we have him with us. The FCID (NPF-NCCC) is currently investigating complaints lodged against Blord Group, Blord Real Estate Ltd, Blord Jetpaye Limited, and Billpoint Technology.
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“These offences include allegations of cryptocurrency fraud, aiding internet fraud, computer-related fraud, terrorism funding, and non-compliance with regulatory frameworks.
“We will do due diligence in our investigation. Our cyberspace must be safe and secure by all means. We are committed to achieving that.”
Muyiwa Adejobi dismissed speculation that Martins Otse, aka VeryDarkMan, was behind the petition that led to BLord’s arrest, clarifying that the police investigation was sparked by unrelated complaints.