In a major crackdown on cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 120 suspected internet fraudsters in Lagos State. The suspects, comprising 95 males and 25 females, were apprehended in a coordinated operation carried out across multiple locations within the state.
In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale disclosed that the arrests followed credible intelligence and intensive surveillance efforts by operatives of the Commission.
“The operation was executed after a period of thorough intelligence gathering and discreet monitoring of the suspects’ activities,” Oyewale said. “Their arrests were based on verified information linking them to a web of internet-related fraud.”
The EFCC revealed that several items were recovered during the sting operation, including 26 luxury cars, high-end mobile phones, laptops, expensive jewelry, and various incriminating documents believed to be tools of their alleged fraudulent dealings.
“The suspects are currently in custody and are being subjected to further interrogation and profiling to establish the full extent of their involvement in cybercrime,” Oyewale added.
He emphasized the Commission’s commitment to rooting out internet fraud, often referred to as “Yahoo Yahoo,” which has become a growing concern in Nigeria, particularly among young people.
“The EFCC will continue to intensify its efforts in ridding the nation of all forms of economic and financial crimes. Those found guilty will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” he said.
The suspects will be formally charged in court once investigations are concluded.
This latest operation underscores the EFCC’s ongoing nationwide clampdown on cybercrime, and serves as a strong warning to individuals involved in fraudulent online activities.
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