Police operatives in Ondo State have rescued 20 individuals who were reportedly held against their will by a syndicate behind a fraudulent Ponzi scheme known as ‘Quest International Company.’
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Wilfred Afolabi, disclosed the development at the command’s headquarters in Akure, noting that the victims had been deceived into joining the scheme under the pretense of employment opportunities.
The breakthrough came weeks after the collapse of another investment platform, Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX), and involved a sting operation at the syndicate’s base in Oba-Ile, Akure North Local Government Area.
Those rescued include Rafiu Kehinde, Adebayo Nafisat, Mohammed Aishat, Jesujuwon Osuntoki, Mustapha Gbolahan, Ibukun Samuel, Gbolahan Wasiu, Aminu Ifasina, Mohammed Sheifff, and Adebayo Rohemat. Others named are Saheed Ibrahim, Ibrahim Adebayo, Adebayo Sukurat, Olawoyi Wasilat, Sholagberu Shakirat, Adeyemi Skukurat, Basari Saadiqq, and Raji Taofeek.
One of the suspects, 26-year-old Sadiq Zakariya, was apprehended after parents from Osun and Oyo States lodged complaints about their children’s sudden disappearance.
The victims had been missing since November 2024 after being invited to Akure for a supposed job offer by acquaintances.
Afolabi explained that following these reports, the command’s surveillance unit initiated an investigation on April 24, leading to the eventual discovery of the victims.
“During the operation, one Sakariya Sadiq was discovered to be the prime suspect involved in the alleged criminal activities,” the commissioner stated.
“Victims are allegedly lured into joining a Ponzi scheme called ‘Quest International Company’ under false promises of profit.”
He added that participants were compelled to pay ₦1.5 million each and required to bring in two more recruits as a condition for full membership.
Once involved, they were cut off from their families.
The suspect reportedly claimed that the payments covered items such as “chi-pendants,” “bio-discs,” and accommodation.
Afolabi affirmed that Zakariya would face charges once the investigation concludes. Meanwhile, arrangements are underway to reunite the rescued victims with their families.
