The Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 32 suspected internet fraudsters during an intelligence-driven raid in Minna, the capital of Niger State. The operation, which took place after sustained surveillance, targeted a known hideout for cybercrime activities in the city.
Among the items seized during the raid were nine luxury vehicles, 44 mobile phones, 20 laptop computers, and several internet modems, all believed to be tools used in perpetrating fraudulent activities. The EFCC has indicated that the suspects were involved in various forms of cybercrime, commonly referred to as “Yahoo Yahoo,” including identity theft, romance scams, and other internet-based fraud schemes that target both local and international victims.
The anti-graft agency revealed that investigations are ongoing to gather more evidence and finalize the cases against the suspects. Upon conclusion of the investigations, they will be charged to court to face prosecution for their alleged crimes. The EFCC also reiterated its commitment to clamping down on internet fraudsters and warned that such crimes would not go unpunished, as the commission continues to intensify its efforts to rid the nation of cybercriminal activities.
The Kaduna Zonal Commander of the EFCC, in a statement, emphasized the importance of intelligence-driven operations in their fight against financial crimes, stressing that the agency remains vigilant in tracking down individuals and networks involved in internet fraud across Nigeria.
This latest operation is part of the EFCC’s broader efforts to combat the growing menace of cybercrime in the country, which has seen a rise in recent years due to advancements in technology and increasing internet penetration. The Commission has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help curb financial crimes.
