Delta State Police Command operatives have arrested a 28-year-old suspected internet fraudster, popularly referred to as a “Yahoo boy,” for allegedly killing his friend in a dispute over a US$1,000 transaction, police confirmed.
The incident occurred in Agbarho community, Ughelli North Local Government Area, on January 21, 2026, the command said.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Bright Edafe, said the suspect, identified only as Oghenegare, and the deceased, named Courage, were involved in internet fraud activities together.
A disagreement reportedly arose during an online transaction valued at US$1,000, escalating into a confrontation between the two men.
Mr. Edafe said the altercation turned violent when Oghenegare allegedly struck Courage on the head during the dispute.
The victim sustained fatal injuries and subsequently died from the head trauma. Police confirmed that the suspect is currently in detention at the Delta State Police Command headquarters in Asaba pending further investigation.
In a video obtained by police investigators, the suspect described the deceased as a childhood friend and stated that he believed Courage had “logged him out of the process” of the transaction, contributing to the dispute that led to the fatal attack.
Police did not provide further details on the exact circumstances of the confrontation that preceded the fatal injury.
The police spokesperson lamented the rising incidence of violent crime linked to personal disputes, drug abuse and emotional reactions, underscoring the need for community vigilance and lawful conflict resolution.
“We are increasingly witnessing murder cases in the state linked to issues that could be resolved without resorting to violence,” Mr. Edafe said in the statement.
Delta State Police Command said it will continue its investigation into the matter and urged members of the public to assist law enforcement with credible information that could aid in prosecution.
Local authorities emphasize that violent crime, regardless of motivation, remains a serious offence under Nigerian law and will attract stern legal consequences upon conviction.
The arrest highlights ongoing concerns about violent behaviour associated with criminal networks operating in parts of southern Nigeria, particularly where disputes over illegal proceeds or financial dealings lead to fatal outcomes.
Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly called for strengthened community cooperation and preventative policing to address such crimes.
