The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a suspect linked to a brazen robbery scheme targeting job seekers in Magodo, Lagos, where victims were lured to a fake interview and stripped of their belongings. The incident, which gained widespread attention after a viral video surfaced on social media, highlights growing concerns over fraudulent job scams in Nigeria’s bustling job market. The video, shared on April 10 by X user @General_Somto, showed distressed individuals who claimed they were robbed after attending what appeared to be a legitimate job interview. One victim warned the public, saying, “Nigerians, let’s be careful out there… Not all job offers are legit. We went for a job interview in Magodo, Lagos only to be robbed. They took our phones, money, and everything we had on us.”
The scam unfolded in a seemingly professional setting that initially gave no cause for alarm. Victims were told to step outside briefly during the interview process, only to return and find their personal items — including mobile phones, cash, and other valuables — missing. The police confirmed that the case was reported at approximately 11:00 p.m. on April 9, 2026, and investigations are ongoing. According to the Lagos State Police Command, one suspect is currently in custody, while efforts continue to track down other suspects who fled the scene. Authorities emphasized that the incident is being treated with the utmost seriousness and that all those involved will face the full force of the law.
The police have issued a public advisory urging job seekers to exercise extreme caution when responding to job advertisements, especially those found online. They advised individuals to verify company details through official channels, avoid attending interviews at unfamiliar or isolated locations, and always inform trusted friends or family members of their whereabouts. The warning comes amid rising reports of similar scams across major cities in Nigeria, where criminals exploit the desperation of job seekers to carry out coordinated thefts under the guise of employment opportunities.
This incident underscores the need for greater awareness and vigilance among job applicants in Nigeria’s competitive job market. As more people turn to digital platforms in search of work, the risk of falling victim to such schemes increases. The police’s swift response and ongoing investigation send a clear message that such criminal activities will not be tolerated. With the suspect in custody and more arrests expected, authorities hope to deter others from engaging in similar fraudulent operations. The case serves as a stark reminder that job seekers must remain cautious and proactive in protecting themselves from exploitation.
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