Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday, July 31, 2025, arrested 47 individuals suspected to be involved in internet fraud, in a coordinated operation across multiple locations in Benin City, Edo State.
According to an official statement released by the Commission, the arrests were based on actionable intelligence linking the suspects to various forms of cybercrime, including identity theft, romance scams, fraudulent online investment schemes, and impersonation.
The EFCC disclosed that during the sting operation, 16 luxury vehicles—believed to be proceeds of crime—were recovered, along with dozens of high-end smartphones, laptops, and other digital devices. Forensic analysis of the recovered items is currently underway to uncover further evidence and identify potential accomplices, both locally and internationally.
“This operation is part of our ongoing efforts to combat the rising tide of cybercrime across Nigeria. We will continue to pursue individuals who use technology to defraud innocent people, both at home and abroad,” the Commission said.
The EFCC also confirmed that the suspects are currently undergoing profiling and will be arraigned in court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The Commission urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious online activities, warning young Nigerians against getting involved in cybercrime under the illusion of quick wealth.
The arrests come amid increased scrutiny and international pressure on Nigerian authorities to curb the global impact of internet-related fraud, often traced back to criminal networks operating within the country.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, has reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on cybercrime, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting Nigeria’s international reputation.
