In a significant development, the Nigeria Police Force has achieved a breakthrough in the cybercrime case involving Patricia Technologies, leading to the arrest of one of the suspects, Wilfred Bonse. The arrest comes after an extensive investigation conducted by the National Cybercrime Center of the Nigeria Police (NPF-NCCC).
Earlier this year, Patricia Technologies, a cryptocurrency trading platform, reported a cybercrime incident to the Inspector General of Police, alleging theft and a breach of its platform. The breach resulted in the loss of funds belonging to depositors, prompting Patricia Technologies to suspend the platform to prevent further compromise of depositors’ funds.
The investigation uncovered a complex criminal conspiracy that involved the unauthorized modification of computer systems, network data, and the unlawful diversion of funds exceeding 607 million Naira belonging to Patricia Technologies.
The alleged theft included the conversion of cryptocurrency wallets and the unauthorized diversion of funds from Patricia Technologies’ Flutterwave account. Wilfred Bonse emerged as a key player in the elaborate scheme, conspiring with others to fraudulently divert 607 million Naira from Patricia Technologies’ account to his bank account through a cryptocurrency wallet.
Hanu Fejiro, CEO of Patricia Technologies, expressed relief at the conclusion of the police investigation and the arrest of one of the perpetrators. He stated, “This is a big relief. We have finally been vindicated as not a few disbelieved us that our platform was hacked in the first place.” Fejiro acknowledged the diligence of the Nigerian Police and the commitment of his colleagues, emphasizing that customers now have more reasons to trust Patricia Technologies.
Fejiro further highlighted the organization’s commitment to truthfulness, fairness, and responsibility, assuring the public that Patricia Technologies has relaunched its platform with enhanced security. He expressed optimism about the future, stating, “With our platform relaunched with stronger security and our commitment to Nigerians renewed, we look forward to the new era with great optimism.”
Patricia Technologies commenced the first phase of repaying depositors who lost money to the breach on Monday, November 20. Despite other co-conspirators remaining at large, the Nigeria Police Force assured the public that comprehensive efforts are underway to ensure that all involved in this criminal conspiracy are brought to justice.
The breakthrough in the Patricia Technologies cybercrime case marks a significant step toward restoring trust and confidence in the platform. The company’s commitment to transparency and its proactive measures, including platform relaunch and fund repayment, demonstrate its dedication to safeguarding the interests of its customers.
