The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), through the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation of a large-scale cyber fraud involving computer-related offences, unauthorized access to computer systems, and theft of telecommunications services valued at approximately ₦7.7 billion.
The investigation was launched following a complaint by a leading telecommunications company, which reported the compromise and unauthorized use of staff login credentials. Preliminary findings revealed that between October 1 and November 28, 2024, the suspects illegally accessed the firm’s network billing infrastructure and fraudulently generated airtime that was subsequently converted into data bundles.
According to investigators, the illegally obtained data bundles were distributed and sold through a network of vendors operating across the country, resulting in substantial financial losses to the telecommunications provider.
During the course of the investigation, police operatives arrested several suspects and recovered more than 400 laptops, 1,000 mobile phones, Point-of-Sale (POS) machines, cash exhibits, and other incriminating materials. The affected telecommunications company was also able to reverse approximately 2,931.79 terabytes of fraudulently acquired data, estimated to be worth about ₦3.8 billion.
Further investigations uncovered the involvement of both insiders and external collaborators in the scheme. In a second phase of operations conducted in May 2026, operatives of the NPF-NCCC, acting on credible intelligence, carried out coordinated raids in Kano, Katsina, and Zamfara states, leading to the arrest of key suspects identified as Musa Muhammed Kwandi, Nura Sadauki, and Aminu Muhammed.
Other individuals arrested in connection with the case include Musa Hassan Mohammed, an information technology specialist, as well as Samson Alisigwe and Yusuf Shehu, who are alleged to have benefited from proceeds generated through the fraudulent operation.
The police disclosed that sustained financial investigations and asset-tracing efforts led to the recovery of nearly ₦90 million, alongside assets believed to be proceeds of the crime. These include two residential houses in Kano State, a mini-plaza, and a Toyota RAV4 vehicle.
Authorities said investigations are continuing to identify additional accomplices, trace further proceeds of the fraud, and ensure the prosecution of all individuals found culpable.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding the nation’s critical digital infrastructure and intensifying efforts to combat cybercrime and other technology-driven offences.
The police also urged members of the public with relevant information to assist ongoing investigations by contacting the NPF-NCCC through its e-reporting portal or official social media platforms.
