Omotayo Adigun
Operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have apprehended 40 individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud following separate intelligence-driven operations conducted in the Bida and Minna areas of Niger State.
The arrests, confirmed by the EFCC‘s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, in a post on the Commission’s X handle on Wednesday, came as a result of credible intelligence linking the suspects to various fraudulent online activities.
The successful operations led to the recovery of a significant number of items, suggesting the scale of the alleged illicit activities. Among the recovered assets are three cars and ten motorcycles, indicating potential proceeds of crime.
The operatives also seized electronic devices commonly associated with internet fraud, including eight laptop computers and a substantial number of 60 Android mobile phones. To facilitate their operations, the suspects possessed eight power generating sets, a Hisense air conditioner, and two power stabilizers, highlighting a significant investment in their alleged activities. Additionally, four Bluetooth speakers were recovered.
In a noteworthy aspect of the operation, the EFCC also recovered a collection of unusual items believed to be fetish objects. These items include three calabashes adorned with feathers, traditionally made soap and sponge, a bottle of alcoholic hot drink, 20 cowries, a waist bead, and four ladies’ underwear.
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The presence of these items raises questions about the suspects’ practices and beliefs in relation to their alleged fraudulent activities.
Oyewale stated that the arrests underscore the EFCC’s commitment to combating cybercrime and financial fraud across the country. He emphasized that the commission will continue to act on credible intelligence to dismantle criminal networks and bring perpetrators to justice.
The 40 suspects are currently undergoing further investigation. Upon the conclusion of the investigative process, they will be charged in a court of law to face prosecution for their alleged involvement in internet fraud.
