The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria announced the apprehension of 33 individuals in Owerri for internet fraud on Thursday.
The Enugu Zonal Command of the EFCC carried out a sting operation following actionable intelligence.
The 33 individuals arrested were identified as Chukwu Frank Chinonso, Nnaji Ifeanyi Christian, Ezeji Princewill Chimezie, Ogbonna George Will Ndubuisi, Onuoha Daniel Chimaobi, Ekwusa Gerald Idiakachi, Echefulachi Divine Echefulachi, Ike Simon Chisom, Ike Michael Chimezie, Dike Princewill Chinanu, Okorie Gabriel Chigoziie, Matthew Izu Ofoha, Osakwe Godswill, Dickson, Nlemadim Godstime, Izuchukwu, Njoku Gerald Chukwuebuka, Ubeachu Cannan Ikedi, Duru Ebuka Emmanuel, Ajoko Nzubechi God’swill, Onyimadu Alozieuwa Franklin, Akubueze Uchechukwu Franklin, Manji Gotom Sabastine, Uwandu bright Ogochukwu, Ubah Kingsley Chidozie, Chibueze Nelson Kennedy, Okwute JohsonOnyedikachi, Ebuka Wisdom Obioma, Obiechefu Nmesonma David, Nwoke Chibuzo Favour, Mensah Chisaraokwu Kelechi, Chigaemezu John Bright, Chikwado Christain Nmesoma, Nwoke Chukwuemeka, and Christopher.
In total, the suspects had 43 mobile phones, 8 laptops, one point of sale (POS) machine, and four luxury cars confiscated from them during the operation.
Cybercrime has become a significant threat to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, and the EFCC is taking necessary steps to eradicate the issue.
Wilson Uwujaren, the spokesperson for the EFCC, confirmed that the suspects would be arraigned in court after the investigation is concluded.
He also urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities to the EFCC to help the agency’s fight against cybercrime.
The EFCC advised the public to be careful when sharing personal information online as it increases the risk of cybercrime.
The commission is collecting data on cyber threats to Nigeria’s online community as part of its efforts to curb internet fraud.
The Nigerian government has set up a specialized unit to tackle online fraud, and the EFCC has vowed to continue with its efforts to bring those responsible for cybercrime to justice.
