EFCC Arrests 23 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abia
By Erewunmi Peace
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 23 suspected internet fraudsters in Umuahia, Abia State, in a coordinated operation that targeted an alleged cybercrime training centre.
According to an official statement released by the EFCC’s Uyo Zonal Directorate, the arrests were made on Thursday, July 18, following intelligence that led operatives to a location known as “Yahoo-Yahoo Hustle Kingdom” within Doofco Palace, situated behind Government College, Umuahia.
Eight of the suspects were reportedly caught inside the makeshift “academy,” while fifteen others were apprehended in nearby areas during a sweep of the vicinity.
“The suspects were arrested based on credible intelligence concerning a syndicate of internet fraudsters operating from a building in Umuahia used for training aspiring cybercriminals,” the EFCC stated.
Recovered Items:
15 laptops
34 mobile phones
2 vehicles
The anti-graft agency also noted that the arrested individuals are currently undergoing profiling and would be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
This development comes amid ongoing efforts by the EFCC to clamp down on cybercrime across Nigeria, especially as “Yahoo Yahoo” culture continues to affect the country’s global image and youth productivity.
The EFCC urged members of the public to continue providing useful information that can help combat financial crimes and internet fraud in their communities.
