Operatives from the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 36 suspected internet fraudsters in a coordinated operation in Onitsha, Anambra State. The arrests, carried out on October 11, 2024, were based on intelligence reports linking the individuals to various forms of online criminal activities.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were involved in impersonating foreign nationals on social media platforms, using fake identities to deceive and defraud unsuspecting victims. The operatives swooped on multiple locations in Onitsha where the suspects were operating, seizing luxury items and electronic gadgets believed to have been acquired through the fraudulent schemes.
Among the items recovered during the operation were eight high-end luxury vehicles, a collection of sophisticated mobile phones, and laptops—all suspected to be tools used by the fraudsters in their illegal activities. The EFCC emphasized that the recovery of these items supports their investigation into the suspected online crimes.
In a statement, the EFCC noted, “The arrest of these 36 suspects is a result of meticulous intelligence gathering and swift enforcement action. These individuals are believed to have been involved in cybercrimes, including impersonating foreign nationals to defraud people online.” The agency further explained that their tactics primarily involved creating fake profiles on social media platforms and convincing victims to transfer money or provide sensitive information under false pretenses.
The agency also reassured the public that it remains committed to combating cybercrime in all its forms and continues to work tirelessly to track down those responsible for defrauding innocent individuals, both locally and internationally.
The suspects are currently being held for further questioning and investigations. The EFCC has indicated that they will be formally charged in court as soon as the ongoing investigation is completed. The commission also confirmed that efforts are underway to identify and contact victims of the scam, many of whom are believed to be based overseas.
The EFCC called on the public to remain vigilant against online fraud, urging them to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. This latest operation marks another step in the commission’s broader crackdown on internet fraudsters, commonly referred to as “Yahoo boys,” who have been operating across various regions in Nigeria.
This high-profile arrest underscores the EFCC’s commitment to its mandate of tackling financial crimes and internet fraud in Nigeria, which have gained increasing global attention. It also highlights the growing sophistication of cybercriminals, who are continually exploiting new technologies and online platforms to carry out their illicit activities. The EFCC pledged to continue working with local and international partners to combat cybercrime and ensure justice for victims.
