CAPE TOWN – A 42-year-old Nigerian national is facing fraud charges after allegedly swindling a Canadian woman out of R24 million in a romance scam. The arrest was made on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, by the Western Cape Commercial Crime Investigation unit.
The victim reportedly met the suspect, known as “Raymond Butler,” on social media in 2022. The suspect cultivated an online relationship with the woman, eventually convincing her to invest R24 million in a fraudulent overseas project.
Following a thorough investigation, police arrested the 42-year-old Nigerian national at a residence in Parklands, Table View. He is expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court soon.
Police are urging women to be cautious of online relationships, especially if they involve requests for money. They have provided the following tips to help identify potential dating scammers:
- Be wary of individuals who seem too good to be true. Scammers often appear exceptionally caring and responsible.
- Be sceptical of business proposals. Romance scammers frequently propose investment opportunities.
- Question reluctance to be photographed or meet in person.
- Pay attention to secrecy. Scammers will often try to avoid providing identifying information or meeting in public.
- Be wary of attempts to control the relationship. This includes reluctance to introduce you to family or take you to their real home.
- Notice contradictory stories. Romance scammers may tell inconsistent stories about themselves.
If you suspect you are a victim of a romance scam, contact your local police department immediately.
Tags: Raymond Butler