Five Chinese Nationals Convicted in Lagos for Cyberterrorism and Internet Fraud — EFCC Clampdown

In a landmark ruling, the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has successfully secured the conviction of five Chinese nationals involved in offenses bordering on cyberterrorism and sophisticated internet fraud schemes. The historic judgment, delivered on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, came from the courtroom of Justice Dehinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos State. The convicted Chinese nationals — identified as Guo Qiang, Yang Shumei, Guo Zhi Yong, Zhang Gia Feng, and Lu Yi Liang — were all implicated as part of a more extensive syndicate that was deeply entrenched in an elaborate cryptocurrency investment racket as well as romance-related internet fraud operations. According to details provided by the EFCC, the five convicts were apprehended in connection with a sweeping sting operation carried out on December 19, 2024. The coordinated effort, codenamed the “Eagle Flush Operation,” was designed to dismantle a web of fraudsters targeting vulnerable people online and defrauding them under the guise of cryptocurrency investments or love scams. That same operation resulted in the arrest of as many as 792 suspects in total, reflecting the far-reaching scale of the syndicate’s activities. Each of the defendants was brought before the Federal High Court on separate charges relating to their involvement in cybercrime operations. These activities included gaining unauthorized access to various computer systems, with the underlying intention of compromising and destabilizing Nigeria’s socio-economic and technological infrastructure. Initially, the accused individuals pleaded not guilty at the point of their formal arraignment. However, during subsequent hearings on Tuesday, they opted to change their plea to guilty. Following their new plea, the prosecution counsel, U.S. Kyari, made a motion urging the court to convict the defendants in line with their admissions. In response, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu pronounced a sentence of one year imprisonment for each of the five convicts. The court also imposed a monetary fine of N1,000,000 (One Million Naira) on each of them as additional punishment. Furthermore, Justice Dipeolu ordered the Nigeria Immigration Service to make the necessary arrangements for the convicts to be repatriated back to China within seven days after completing their prison sentences in Nigeria. This directive is aimed at ensuring their prompt removal from the country upon serving their terms. The successful conviction and sentencing of these individuals underline Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to combating the threat of cybercrime, internet fraud, and financial terrorism, especially where foreign nationals are found to be exploiting the nation’s cyberspace for criminal gain.

Arson: Bauchi Man Ordered to Pay N150 Million for Burning Down FRSC Patrol Vehicle

In Bauchi State, a man identified as Nasiru Gwallaga has been convicted for the arson of a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) patrol vehicle. The incident took place in Bara village, within Kirfi Local Government Area, back in 2023. According to the Sector Commander of the FRSC in Bauchi State, Istifanus Ibrahim, who revealed this information during a media briefing on Friday, the convicted individual was ordered to pay N150 million. This amount represents the total value of the patrol vehicle that was destroyed in the fire. Commander Ibrahim explained further that Nasiru Gwallaga, along with two co-defendants, received an additional sentence of one year in prison each, or in the alternative, a fine of N15,000. These penalties were handed down for the offenses of conspiring to obstruct officers, actively obstructing civil servants in the line of duty, and physically assaulting public officers carrying out their lawful assignments. The conviction and sentencing were delivered by Justice Safiya Doma of the Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Fadama Mada, Bauchi State, on June 23, 2025. Moreover, Commander Ibrahim pointed out that Gwallaga was also convicted of inflicting bodily harm on FRSC officials. In addition, he was ordered to pay N170,000 to cover damages for a Samsung Galaxy phone belonging to the then Acting Unit Commander (UC) that was damaged during the incident. “All of the convicts were directed to pay an extra N50,000, which accounts for the legal expenses incurred by the nominal complainant in prosecuting the case,” the sector commander added. Justice Safiya Doma emphasized in the judgment that the convicts reserve the right to appeal the verdict at the High Court of Justice within a period of 30 days from the date the ruling was issued. Commander Ibrahim further stressed that this judgment should stand as a warning to individuals who believe they can take the law into their own hands. He also urged road users to continue respecting the law, noting that the Federal Road Safety Corps should not be seen as an adversary but rather as a partner dedicated to ensuring that lives and property are protected on Nigeria’s roads.

Feared Zamfara Bandit and TikTok Notoriety, Mai Jakka, Neutralized in Security Operation

In what many residents of Zamfara State consider a long-awaited relief, one of Nigeria’s most feared bandits, Mai Jakka, widely known for turning his violent escapades into viral TikTok content, has reportedly been killed in a targeted security operation. Where It Happened According to verified local intelligence, the elimination of Mai Jakka occurred in Garaji village, a rural settlement located in the Mayanchi axis of Zamfara State, North-West Nigeria — an area notorious for insurgency and armed banditry. Official Confirmation and Source of Information The news was confirmed by Abdallah Yunus Abdallah, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor of Kaduna State, through a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). Citing intelligence sources, he wrote: “Reports coming out of Mayanchi axis of Zamfara report that the security forces have eliminated notorious bandit TikToker Mai Jakka in Garaji village.” Though the government is yet to release an official statement, reliable local and regional sources affirm the validity of the report. Who Was Mai Jakka? Unlike many other bandits who remain hidden in the shadows, Mai Jakka gained an infamous reputation by showcasing his criminal acts on TikTok, where he mocked victims and glamorized violence. His videos often depicted attacks, stolen property, and derisive comments aimed at the pain and helplessness of his victims. This controversial use of social media earned him thousands of views but also made him a target of national and international condemnation. Public Reaction and Local Impact Although detailed reports are still unfolding, early reactions from local residents suggest a sense of renewed hope and security, especially in villages repeatedly attacked by bandits. Many believe that his death marks a turning point in the ongoing battle against rural terrorism and digital radicalization. Part of a Broader Counter-Terrorism Operation According to internal sources familiar with the matter, Mai Jakka’s death is believed to be part of a coordinated crackdown by Nigerian security agencies, aimed at neutralizing high-value terror suspects operating across the North West. This strategic mission aligns with the federal government’s increased focus on curbing insurgency and restoring peace to vulnerable areas. Experts also believe that security intelligence is now being enhanced through digital footprint tracking, especially for criminals seeking notoriety via social media.

Taraba Police Begin Manhunt for Suspects Behind Brutal Killing of Fulani Herder in Wukari Forest

The Taraba State Police Command has officially commenced a detailed investigation into the horrifying murder of a 29-year-old Fulani herder, Nura Umaru, whose lifeless body was recently discovered in a dense forest close to Rafin Kada in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. Reports reaching Zagazola Makama reveal that Umaru had vanished on June 22 while tending to his father’s cattle. His father, Umaru Dan Kani, confirmed that Nura failed to return home after setting out with the livestock, prompting an intensive two-day search by the family. Tragically, his remains were found on the morning of June 24, at approximately 7:00 a.m., deep within the bushlands near Rafin Kada. Speaking on the shocking development, DSP Umar Aji, the supervising officer of the local police outpost, disclosed that preliminary evidence pointed to a close-range shooting. The late herder’s body bore severe injuries, with visible signs of mutilation — notably, his intestines were exposed, suggesting a direct and brutal assault from behind. Law enforcement officers immediately moved to the crime scene for comprehensive documentation and body retrieval. According to local police authorities, the victim’s remains have been respectfully handed over to his family for burial in line with Islamic traditions. The police command, in a formal statement, reaffirmed its resolve to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the savage killing. The authorities further pledged to strengthen security operations across the affected region by increasing police patrols and deploying more personnel for surveillance in Rafin Kada, ensuring the area does not witness a recurrence of such violence. The command emphasized its ongoing commitment to protecting lives and property across the state. It stressed that acts of violence, ethnic targeting, and lawlessness will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This incident has heightened concerns around growing security challenges in rural communities in Taraba State, especially where communal tensions have occasionally flared. Local stakeholders are urging both security forces and government bodies to improve intelligence gathering and enhance community policing efforts to prevent similar tragedies.

20 Nigerian Soldiers Killed, Numerous Bandits Eliminated in Deadly Niger State Attack

A tragic armed confrontation between suspected bandits and Nigerian security forces has led to the deaths of at least 20 military personnel, with many of the armed assailants also neutralized during the intense exchange of fire in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State. Two Separate Communities Attacked Hours Apart The violent incident reportedly took place on Tuesday across two different villages in the region. According to local reports, Konan Dutse Kaiyan Ghana, located near the Bangi axis, came under attack around 11:00 p.m., while another assault occurred in Gulmin Boka community earlier at 5:00 p.m. on the same day. Local sources disclosed that the gunmen, believed to be bandits, were seen using their known routes—commonly exploited for abductions and cattle theft—when they encountered military resistance. Soldiers Ambushed During Response Mission In a statement confirming the harrowing development, Mariga Local Government Chairman, Alhaji Abbas Kasuwa Garba, revealed that the Nigerian soldiers were ambushed as they responded to an alert about suspicious bandit activity in the affected area. Garba also stated that the bodies of 17 soldiers had been recovered and transported to the Kontagora military barracks. The retrieval mission was conducted by collaborating security forces following the deadly encounter in the forested region. Ongoing Security Search and Reinforcements The council chairman emphasized that local vigilante groups and various security agencies are currently engaged in search operations to trace and apprehend the armed criminals. He commended the Nigerian Air Force for its rapid and effective aerial countermeasures, which were crucial in subduing some of the attackers. Garba also advised residents in the area to maintain their composure and to promptly report any unusual or suspicious activity to the relevant security authorities for timely intervention. Appeal for Calm Amid Security Operations While reassuring the public, the chairman noted that the Niger State Government is actively working with federal security forces to restore normalcy and safeguard the lives of citizens in the affected communities. “The government is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety, peace, and stability of the region,” he stated. As at the time of publishing, no official statement has been released by the state government or national security agencies regarding the incident.

Colombian Army Rescues 57 Soldiers Held Hostage by Civilians in Rebel-Controlled Cauca Region

In a bold and strategically executed mission, the Colombian Army successfully rescued 57 of its personnel who had been detained by local civilians in southern Cauca, a volatile zone notorious for rebel activity and narcotics operations. The soldiers had been held hostage since the weekend in an operation suspected to be linked to dissident rebel factions. On Tuesday, Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez officially announced the military’s success during what was named “Operation Justice”, emphasizing that the entire operation was completed without a single gunshot being fired. He further revealed that 20 individuals were arrested in the process, suspected of aiding and executing the detention under rebel influence. Civilians Allegedly Acting on Orders from Rebel Group Earlier reports, including those from DAILY POST, had disclosed that the detained soldiers were overpowered by organized civilian groups. These civilians were allegedly operating under directives from the EMC (Estado Mayor Central)—a powerful breakaway wing of the now-dissolved FARC guerrilla movement. The EMC is currently considered one of Colombia’s most dangerous insurgent forces, with deep ties to cocaine production and trafficking, particularly in the rural highlands of Cauca. Military Denounces Act as Coordinated Kidnapping Minister Sánchez strongly condemned the unlawful detention, labeling it a deliberate “kidnapping” orchestrated by the EMC. According to him, the group mobilized local residents to physically block the military’s extraction of a captured suspected rebel, apprehended on Saturday. This confrontation escalated into a full-blown standoff. General Erick Rodríguez of the Colombian Army explained that over 100 individuals surrounded the first military unit attempting to airlift the suspect. A second group of soldiers deployed to assist was also encircled by an even larger mob, effectively holding two units hostage simultaneously. Unprecedented in Scale and Nature Although the temporary detention of security forces by civilians in Colombia’s conflict zones is not entirely uncommon, the magnitude and coordination of this event were described as unprecedented. Typically, soldiers captured in such instances are released following negotiations led by humanitarian agencies. However, in this case, the captors refused all avenues for negotiation, forcing the Colombian Army to deploy heavily armed reinforcements. The resultant tactical operation not only liberated the detained soldiers but also led to the arrest of 20 individuals, believed to be acting on EMC instructions. Cauca: A Region Trapped in Conflict and Cocaine Economy The Cauca department continues to be one of Colombia’s most dangerous and conflict-ridden zones, where the presence of state forces is frequently met with suspicion and resistance. One of the major challenges faced by the government is the deep socio-economic dependence on coca cultivation, the primary raw ingredient in cocaine. Military assessments suggest that over 90% of the region’s population relies on coca farming as their main source of income. This economic dependency fuels a cycle of poverty, violence, and insurgent control. In addition to the EMC, the region is infested with multiple armed groups that extort local farmers, exploit illegal mining sites, and manage lucrative drug trafficking routes. These overlapping threats have severely hindered the government’s efforts to re-establish security and transition local economies toward legal agricultural and trade activities.

BREAKING: Deadly Bomb Blast in Kano Claims 5 Lives, 15 Injured from Yobe-Origin Truck

A fatal explosion involving a military-grade bomb has tragically claimed five lives and injured 15 individuals in Kano State, as confirmed by the Kano State Police Command. Incident Details The devastating event occurred on Saturday at a scrap metal yard situated along the Eastern Bypass in Kano. According to police reports, the explosive device detonated from a vehicle reportedly coming from Yobe State. Official Confirmation While addressing the press, Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, stated that he was alerted to an emergency blast incident in the vicinity. Upon reaching the scene, he confirmed witnessing the aftermath of a military-grade bomb explosion. “It was a military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel-grade bomb. The explosion resulted in 15 injuries. All victims were rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital for immediate treatment,” Bakori revealed. He further disclosed that five casualties were confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital, while 10 others remained under medical care. Preliminary Findings Initial investigations revealed that the truck which carried the explosive had originated from Yobe State. Although a full investigation is ongoing, early findings suggest the bomb was inadvertently transported inside the vehicle. Commissioner Bakori emphasized that more details will be released as investigations progress.

BREAKING: Suspected Herdsmen Launch Deadly Attack on SGF Akume’s Village Just 48 Hours After Tinubu’s Visit

A violent incident reportedly involving suspected herdsmen has struck Wannune community, located in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State — the hometown of Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). According to findings by LMSINT MEDIA, the attack resulted in multiple casualties and left several residents injured. The violent episode occurred barely two days after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid a visit to the state to address the deepening crisis of insecurity. An eyewitness and youth corps member currently serving in the affected area described the situation as alarming and chaotic. “People are fleeing into the bushes to save their lives. The environment is under siege. We need Nigerians to pray for us,” the corps member cried out, pleading for immediate intervention from national security agencies. This fresh wave of violence has triggered concerns about the actual impact of President Tinubu’s recent visit and the effectiveness of the orders he gave to the country’s security forces. During his official tour, the President held a high-level meeting with stakeholders, instructing both the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff to pursue and arrest those responsible for the killings. His visit came on the heels of a harrowing massacre in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, where over 200 people lost their lives, sparking widespread condemnation and national outrage.

398 Criminal Suspects Nabbed by Joint Security Operatives in Kaduna State

A coordinated crackdown by the Kaduna State Police Command-led joint security task force has resulted in the arrest of 398 suspected criminals across various areas in Kaduna State. According to a statement released on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, the comprehensive security sweep took place within the first nine days of deploying the multi-agency task force. This elite task force includes operatives from several national security and law enforcement agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Customs Service, Kaduna State Vigilance Service (KADVIS), and Kaduna State Traffic and Environmental Law Enforcement Authority (KASTLEA). “Through strategic intelligence-sharing and joint operational synergy, a total of 398 suspects were arrested across multiple locations in the state,” stated DSP Hassan. He further revealed that among those captured are Matthew Adamu, a known gang leader infamous for community terrorization, from whom a locally-fabricated firearm was recovered, and Adamu Umar, a repeat drug trafficking offender. Umar’s case has already been handed over to the NDLEA for proper legal processing and investigation. The operation also resulted in the seizure of dangerous weapons, illicit substances, and 29 stolen mobile phones, some of which have already been successfully returned to verified owners after identity confirmation. The task force affirmed its dedication to continuing this intensified security operation until Kaduna State is completely cleansed of criminal activities and threats to public safety.

Terrorists Threaten Kebbi Farmers: ‘Use Cattle or Face Death’

Farmers in Augie Local Government Area (LGA) of Kebbi State have come under threat from armed militants suspected to be part of the Lakurawa terrorist faction, who are reportedly ordering them to abandon mechanised farming methods and revert to the traditional use of cattle for cultivation. As reported by Zagazola Makama, a known security intelligence analyst, the assailants warned that any farmer found operating mechanised equipment would be summarily executed. This disturbing ultimatum has sparked widespread fear and anxiety among residents in several communities already grappling with cattle theft and insecurity. A resident of the area shared, “These terrorists are now in control of our farming decisions. They’ve banned the use of machines. If we use cattle, they confiscate them. Yet, we need farming both to feed our families and for commercial survival.” Reports indicate that the threats have been confirmed as authentic by a reliable intelligence source, noting that several villages in Augie LGA have received these warnings. In response, concerned residents are urging the Nigerian government and military to swiftly intervene before the situation escalates further. This region has experienced recurring terrorist attacks and a surge in cattle rustling, allegedly led by the same Lakurawa elements. In April 2025, no fewer than 13 community vigilante members lost their lives in Morai village, also within Augie LGA, during an ambush by armed assailants who attacked them while they were attempting to retrieve stolen livestock. When approached for comments, Nafiu Abubakar, the Kebbi State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), stated that investigations into the reported threats were underway.

Mokwa Tragedy: Two Decomposed Bodies Recovered After Niger State Flood – SEMA Confirms

Two severely decomposed bodies have been discovered following the tragic flood incident that struck Mokwa town, located in the Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, on May 29, 2025. The catastrophic flood incident was triggered by relentless and heavy rainfall that resulted in the submergence of residential buildings and displaced numerous families, sweeping many victims away from their homes. Confirming the discovery, Abdullahi Baba Arah, who serves as the Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), stated on Thursday that the remains were located downstream of the Mokwa bridge — the same path the surging floodwater had followed during the downpour. According to Arah, “The remains were located after another round of heavy rainfall on Wednesday washed away sand dunes that had previously buried the bodies downstream of the bridge.” He elaborated that the torrential water flow on Wednesday cleared the previously deposited sand that had hidden the corpses, leading to the recovery of the two bodies, which were already decomposed beyond recognition due to prolonged exposure. In an earlier update, the Niger State Government disclosed that over 700 individuals are still unaccounted for, while 207 fatalities have been officially confirmed from the flood disaster.

EFCC Charges Abuja Property Developer, Rebecca Omokamo, Over Alleged ₦500 Million Land Scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally arraigned an Abuja-based real estate developer, Mrs. Godwin-Isaac Rebecca Omokamo, on allegations of involvement in a ₦500 million land fraud and associated money laundering offences. Also identified as Bilkisu Ishaku Aliyu, Omokamo appeared on Wednesday before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where she faced two separate criminal charges. She was arraigned alongside her husband, Isaac Yusuf Ishaku, their company, Homadil Realty Limited, one Idakwogi Richard John, and a second firm named Rychardo Homes Ltd. Two Separate Charges Filed Against Defendants The EFCC filed two distinct charge sheets against the defendants. The first charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/77/2025) contains five counts, while the second charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/76/25) consists of seventeen counts. According to the anti-graft agency, the defendants are accused of illegally collecting over ₦500 million from various victims between 2023 and 2024. The funds were allegedly laundered through multiple company accounts linked to them. Use of Forged Land Documents and False Claims EFCC told the court that the accused used forged documents, including a fake Power of Attorney, to fraudulently claim ownership of Plot 4022, Guzape District, Abuja. These forged papers were allegedly used to obtain a building permit from the FCT Department of Development Control and later to sell the land for ₦70 million. Additionally, the agency alleged that the group misrepresented ownership of Plots 1861, 1862, and 1863 in Cadastral Zone B07, Katampe District, Abuja. These false claims led several unsuspecting individuals to part with large sums of money under the belief that they were buying genuine property. Fraud Against the Legal Owner The prosecution further claimed that the defendants collaborated to falsely acquire Plot 4022, which actually belongs to one Mrs. Colleen Mero Yesufu. Fraudulent documents and deceitful representations were allegedly used in the process. All these acts, according to the EFCC, violate Section 8(a) and are punishable under Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act of 2006. Defendants Plead Not Guilty, Granted Bail Appearing before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, all the defendants entered not guilty pleas to the charges against them. Their legal representatives, Mr. Christopher Oshomegie, SAN, and Mr. Moses Ebute, SAN, successfully secured bail for their clients. The court granted bail in the amount of ₦10 million each, with two sureties per defendant. Bail Conditions and Trial Adjournment Justice Abdulmalik stipulated that each surety must be a civil servant not below grade level 16 and must submit salary evidence for the past three months. The sureties must also own property worth the bail amount and provide an affidavit of means. The court further directed that the defendants submit their international passports and remain within the country, unless granted permission to travel. Pending the fulfillment of their bail conditions, the accused persons will remain in custody. The case has been adjourned to July 21 and 22 for trial. EFCC counsel, Mr. Samuel Chime, stated that the prosecution will present 13 witnesses during the proceedings.

Suspected Attackers Storm Senator Natasha’s Residence Again, One Apprehended

The private residence of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, located in Ihima, within the Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, was reportedly attacked late on Tuesday night, June 17, 2025. According to local witnesses, the gunmen launched their assault by smashing the windows of the senator’s house. However, their plans were thwarted thanks to the quick intervention of security operatives, including the Nigerian Police Force, community vigilante teams, and nearby residents, who collectively repelled the assailants. During the coordinated response, one individual—identified as Suberu Jose—was apprehended at the scene. Locals described him as a well-known individual in the area. Reports allege that Jose confessed to his role in prior attacks on the property, suggesting that this incident marks his third attempt on Senator Natasha’s residence. Before the police could secure the suspect, an irate mob nearly carried out jungle justice, but law enforcement agents managed to intervene and take Jose into official custody. Among the items retrieved from him were a machete and several traditional charms, possibly intended for spiritual protection or intimidation. Meanwhile, other accomplices believed to be involved in the attack reportedly fled the scene with dangerous weapons. Authorities are continuing their efforts to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects. This recent assault mirrors an earlier incident that took place on April 15, 2025, when the senator’s family house was also targeted by unknown attackers. Speaking on the matter, Isreal Arogbonlo, Chief Press Secretary to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, confirmed the development and urged the public to remain peaceful. He stated: “We urge the public to stay calm and continue to seek justice through lawful means. The senator’s unwavering commitment to truth and her dedication to representing her constituents must not be undermined through acts of violence or threats.”