Police nabs fresh suspects in Patricia’s hack case - Africa

Nigerian authorities have identified seven individuals linked to a ₦142.8 million ($155,734) hack on the Patricia platform. The police report indicates the operation occurred between October 2021 and February 2022. Six suspects, including an Uber driver, two Bureau De Change traders, a senior special assistant to a governor, a driver, and a musician, have been questioned. However, the alleged mastermind remains at large. Notably, this follows the arrest of politician Wilfred Bonse in connection with a ₦607 million ($750,000) Patricia hack. Bonse is accused of laundering ₦50 million ($61,800) from the diverted funds. Patricia, victimized in May 2023, announced resuming repayments in November, yet some customers continue to report non-payment. The trial for Bonse is rescheduled for June 2024.