Authorities have arrested dozens of suspected scammers and romance fraud criminals during a large international operation targeting organised fraud networks operating between the UK and Nigeria.
The investigation, known as Operation Seraphim, involved law enforcement agencies from Europe and Africa working together to identify individuals linked to online financial scams, money laundering, and romance fraud schemes that have targeted hundreds of victims.
Specialist investigators from financial crime units, cybercrime teams, and national law enforcement agencies coordinated the operation, leading to 31 arrests so far.
During one raid in the Midlands, police detained a suspect accused of selling banking information online and helping fraud operations through money laundering activities. Officers reportedly seized around £3,000 in cash along with two luxury Rolex watches during the search.
Officials say many of the suspects are connected to romance scams, where fraudsters build emotional relationships with victims over weeks or months before manipulating them into sending money.
One victim, a florist from North Yorkshire, reportedly lost more than £80,000 after becoming involved with a man she met on a dating platform. The man, who introduced himself as “Patrick,” slowly developed trust by discussing his life story, childhood experiences, and future plans.
According to the victim, the relationship initially appeared genuine and there were no obvious warning signs.
She explained that the man later claimed he had been injured while travelling overseas for business and needed financial help. Wanting to support him, she transferred money to several accounts connected to him and his associates.
Investigators believe these accounts may have been linked to so-called “money mule” networks commonly used in international fraud operations.
Financial crime experts warn that romance fraud continues to grow rapidly worldwide, with criminals using emotional manipulation to target vulnerable individuals online.
Craig Rice, a senior figure involved in the investigation, stated that these scams are causing serious emotional and financial harm to victims rather than simply stealing small amounts of money.
Authorities say specialist intelligence teams, banking experts, and cybercrime investigators are continuing to track additional suspects connected to the fraud network.
Law enforcement agencies are also urging the public to remain cautious when forming online relationships and to avoid sending money or banking information to individuals they have never met in person.
Experts recommend watching for common warning signs such as sudden emergencies, requests for financial help, overseas travel stories, or pressure to move conversations away from dating platforms.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to uncover the full scale of the international fraud operation.
