EFCC arrests 24 suspected internet fraudsters in Benin City

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Benin City, Edo State, on Monday, September 30, 2024, arrested 24 suspected internet fraudsters at different locations across the city.

The arrests were part of an ongoing effort to clamp down on cybercrime, which has been on the rise in the region.

The operation was based on actionable intelligence linking the suspects to various forms of computer-related fraud, commonly known as “Yahoo Yahoo.”

According to the EFCC, the individuals were apprehended in a coordinated raid after weeks of surveillance and investigation.

Items recovered during the operation include 11 exotic cars, laptops, and mobile phones, which are believed to have been used in committing fraudulent activities. Additionally, the sum of N160,000 (One Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) was recovered from one of the suspects during the raid.

The suspects have reportedly made useful statements to EFCC operatives and are currently being interrogated. According to the Commission, they will face formal charges in court as soon as the ongoing investigation is completed.

The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to riding the country of cybercrime and urged members of the public to provide information that could assist in the apprehension of more individuals involved in such illegal activities.

The agency also warned young Nigerians to refrain from engaging in internet fraud, as the consequences can be severe, including prosecution, asset forfeiture, and imprisonment.

This recent operation underscores the EFCC’s resolve to combat cybercrime and its determination to ensure that offenders are brought to justice swiftly. The agency continues to work closely with other law enforcement agencies to track down cybercriminals and protect Nigeria’s reputation in the global digital space.