Ibadan, Nigeria — May 2025
A notorious hotel scammer who recently defrauded 25 unsuspecting women at Bon Hotel Nest Bodija, Ibadan, has finally been arrested. The suspect, whose identity is being withheld pending formal charges, was apprehended at Labod Hotel, Bodija, after an intense manhunt sparked by surveillance efforts and collaboration among hospitality establishments.
How the Scam Unfolded at Bon Hotel Nest Bodija
On a seemingly normal day just weeks ago, 25 women fell prey to a well-orchestrated scam while dining at the upscale Bon Hotel Nest in Bodija. According to eyewitness reports and security footage, the scammer posed as a hotel executive, offering luxury dining deals and exclusive event access. By capitalizing on the ambience and trust associated with a high-end establishment, he convinced the victims to make advance payments through fraudulent means.
The incident drew significant public attention and concern, particularly as Bon Hotel is known for its exceptional hospitality standards, including a fitness center, pool bar, restaurant, and top-tier customer service.
A Pattern of Deception: From Akure to Ibadan
What makes this case even more troubling is its cross-state pattern. Just a day before arriving in Ibadan, the same scammer reportedly executed a similar con in a hotel in Akure, Ondo State, using nearly identical tactics to defraud several women there.
Security officials confirm that this individual is a serial offender who has replicated this criminal strategy at multiple hotels across southwestern Nigeria.
Smart Security Measures Led to His Arrest
Following the Bodija incident, Bon Hotel swiftly disseminated the suspect’s photo and CCTV footage across hospitality networks and security agencies. Their quick action paid off when staff at Labod Hotel Bodija recognized the man upon check-in and alerted the police.
The suspect was promptly arrested without incident and is currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Iyaganku, Ibadan, where investigations are underway. Prosecution is expected to follow shortly.
Authorities and EFCC Warn Hotels Against Harboring Fraudsters
This incident echoes similar concerns raised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which earlier this year arrested 56 suspected cybercriminals operating from various hotels in Abeokuta. The EFCC has repeatedly cautioned hotel operators to conduct proper background checks and identity verification of their guests to prevent their premises from becoming safe havens for criminal activity.
Safety Tips for Hotel Guests and Visitors
Whether you're a local or a traveler, here are some expert tips to avoid falling victim to such scams:
Verify Staff Credentials: Always confirm that the person you're dealing with is an official staff member. Look for name tags or verify with the front desk.
Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Be wary of deals that sound too good to be true, especially when offered informally.
Limit Personal Data Sharing: Never disclose sensitive information or make payments without verifying legitimacy.
Report Suspicious Activity: Alert hotel management or local law enforcement immediately if anything feels off.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for the Nigerian Hospitality Industry
The arrest of the serial hotel scammer marks a win for local law enforcement and vigilant hospitality workers. However, it also highlights the pressing need for stricter guest verification processes and public awareness in Nigeria’s hotel industry.
Guests and hotels alike must remain vigilant. With improved collaboration, enhanced technology, and proactive reporting, such incidents can be significantly reduced.
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