The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised serious concerns about the evolving threats posed by internet fraudsters in Nigeria. According to intelligence gathered by the agency, these criminals are now carrying firearms and engaging in heinous activities, including ritual killings and kidnapping, making them a significant danger to public safety. This alarming revelation was shared on Sunday via the EFCC’s official Facebook page. A Tragic Incident: EFCC Officer Killed in Line of Duty The EFCC expressed grief over the tragic death of one of its officers, Assistant Superintendent Aminu Sahabi Harisu, who was brutally killed while pursuing a suspected internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, in Awka, Anambra State, on January 17, 2025. Rising Threats from Internet Fraudsters In its statement, the EFCC highlighted the increasing danger posed by internet fraudsters, commonly known as “Yahoo boys.” These individuals are now involved in activities far beyond cybercrime. “Intelligence has shown that these criminals are carrying arms, involved in kidnapping, banditry, ritual killings, and other deadly acts. The public should not fold its arms or allow itself to be deceived into thinking they are merely ‘Yahoo boys and girls,’” the EFCC stated. The agency vowed to ensure justice for the slain officer, declaring that it would not tolerate further attacks on its personnel. Details of the Awka Operation The EFCC detailed the events leading to the tragic incident in Awka, Anambra State. On January 17, operatives conducted a raid at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, targeting a two-storey building suspected to house internet fraudsters. The operation, which had been formally documented with the Anambra State Police Command, initially saw the arrest of 37 suspects. However, Ikechukwu, who observed the operatives through a CCTV camera, refused to open his apartment door. Despite identifying themselves, the EFCC operatives were met with gunfire. This resulted in the tragic death of ASE11 Aminu Sahabi Harisu and the injury of another officer. Evidence Against the Suspect Preliminary investigations revealed Ikechukwu’s alleged involvement in coding and online medical supply transactions of questionable legitimacy. The EFCC recovered: His role in internet fraud has been established, and the EFCC confirmed that the suspect, currently in police custody, will face prosecution. Commitment to Justice The EFCC reiterated its determination to combat internet fraud and other corrupt practices across Nigeria. The agency expressed gratitude to its sister agencies and the general public for their support and condolences following the tragic loss. Key Takeaways This incident underscores the growing dangers of internet fraud in Nigeria and the urgent need for heightened awareness and security measures. The EFCC’s resolve to fight cybercrime remains steadfast as it calls on Nigerians to cooperate in this critical mission. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has expressed strong disapproval of the growing support on social media for the alleged killer of Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASEII Aminu Sahabi Salisu. Salisu tragically lost his life on January 17, 2025, while executing his official duty in Anambra State to apprehend suspected internet fraudsters. EFCC Responds to the Incident In a statement released on Sunday, the EFCC mourned the death of Salisu and criticized the false narratives being circulated online regarding the incident. The statement, signed by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity, emphasized the injustice of defending the suspect, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, who reportedly shot Salisu and injured another officer during the operation. The Commission condemned those spreading these narratives and called for respect toward Salisu’s family and the integrity of the nation. Incident Overview The incident occurred in Awka, Anambra State, during an EFCC operation to apprehend suspected internet fraudsters. While the team successfully detained 37 suspects without incident, Ikechukwu resisted arrest by refusing to open his door and later shooting at the officers. Salisu was fatally wounded, and another officer sustained injuries during the attack. Preliminary investigations revealed that Ikechukwu was involved in coding and questionable online medical supply operations. EFCC’s Stand Against False Narratives The EFCC denounced the online glorification of Ikechukwu, calling it “irresponsible, inhuman, and outrageous.” The agency reiterated that Salisu’s death was a result of a criminal act, which should not be rationalized or celebrated. “The activities of internet fraudsters have escalated into serious threats to public safety and security,” the EFCC said. Intelligence reports have linked these criminals to activities like armed violence, kidnapping, ritual killings, and other hazardous crimes. Justice and Future Measures Ikechukwu is currently in police custody and will face prosecution for his actions. The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring justice and warned that future attacks on its officers would be met with the full force of the law. Despite this tragic loss, the Commission remains steadfast in its fight against corruption and internet fraud. Acknowledgment of Support The EFCC expressed gratitude to sister agencies, well-meaning individuals, and the general public for their unwavering support during this challenging period. “We mourn the loss of a gallant officer who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation. The EFCC remains committed to its mandate and will not be deterred by such acts of violence,” the statement concluded. Conclusion This tragic incident underscores the dangers faced by anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria. The EFCC remains determined to protect the public from internet fraud and related crimes, urging citizens to support their efforts rather than propagating harmful narratives. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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As Nigeria reflects on the year 2024, many citizens were left grieving, struggling to stay safe, and hoping for a more secure future. The security situation worsened significantly, with internal and external threats leaving the nation in turmoil. Rising Casualties Among Security Forces The Nigeria Police Force bore significant losses, with 140 officers killed in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) alone. Military personnel also faced deadly ambushes, such as the April 19 attack in Niger State, which claimed the lives of six soldiers. Other regions, including the North-East, South-East, and South-South, experienced similar violence. Escalating Violence Across Regions Nigeria faced numerous security threats, including: The police and military struggled to control these threats while dealing with cultism, drug trafficking, terrorism financing, money laundering, and increasing cybercrime. Rural Areas Living in Fear Rural communities were hit hardest, with widespread attacks forcing residents to flee. Farmers abandoned their fields out of fear, leading to economic devastation as agriculture, a primary livelihood, suffered greatly. Cybercrime Surge Cybercriminals defrauded Nigerians of N8.8 billion in 2024. The Nigeria Police National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) made significant strides in combating these crimes, recovering stolen assets and prosecuting over 750 suspects. Kidnappings and Ransom Payments Mass kidnappings remained a serious issue, with over 2.2 million Nigerians affected in 2024. Families paid substantial ransoms, yet many victims were killed despite payments. For instance, retired Major General Richard Duru was murdered even after his family paid $50,000. Southeast Unrest and Rising Ransom Payments The South-East experienced heightened violence from separatist groups, with incidents like the November 18 attacks in Anambra State. Ransom payments were staggering, reaching N419.2 million between July 2023 and June 2024. Security Achievements and Setbacks Despite numerous security breaches, law enforcement agencies achieved some success, including the neutralization of notorious bandits such as Halilu Sububu and Boderi Isyaku. The Nigerian Air Force also executed over 1,000 missions, significantly impacting criminal operations. Looking Ahead to 2025 As Nigeria enters 2025, the nation faces both challenges and opportunities. Security experts emphasize the need for stronger community policing, socio-economic reforms, and better collaboration between citizens and authorities to restore peace. The year 2025 demands action over promises from Nigeria’s security agencies. Restoring safety, stability, and public trust must be a top priority. Will this be the year of transformation or another chapter of missed opportunities? READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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In 2024, the Nigerian Police Cybercrime Centre dismantled 5,049 cybercrime syndicates, arrested 751 suspects, and recovered billions in funds while earning recognition as Africa’s Best Cybercrime Unit by INTERPOL. In a significant move against cybercrime, the Nigerian Police Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) successfully dismantled 5,049 malicious domains, networks, and major cybercrime syndicates both within Nigeria and internationally in 2024. The Centre reported achieving 14 convictions and recovering ₦8.821 billion, $115,237, and $84,000, which have been returned to the victims as restitution. Over 751 suspects linked to cybercrime threats were apprehended and prosecuted by the NPF-NCCC’s operatives, known as Cyber Hawks. During their investigations, 685 devices were seized from cybercriminals, including 467 mobile phones, 137 laptops, 46 routers, four servers, one drone, and four Starlink devices. Additionally, authorities confiscated 16 houses, 39 plots of land, 14 land documents, and 26 vehicles tied to criminal activities. A total of 508 cybercrime cases were reported, including incidents of sextortion and cyberstalking. The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, and the Director of NPF-NCCC, Ifeanyi Uche, revealed that INTERPOL honored the NPF-NCCC with the award for the Best Cybercrime Unit in Africa due to their outstanding efforts. Regarding identity theft, business email compromise, and money laundering, the Force PRO disclosed that on December 20, 2024, the NPF-NCCC apprehended Douglass Victor, a key figure in a dark web-based cybercrime syndicate. The syndicate, led by Diepreye Samuel, targeted major corporations worldwide by compromising business emails to defraud companies and divert funds for personal use. Victor confessed to compromising customers’ email addresses and passwords, intercepting business communications, and rerouting funds to the syndicate’s accounts. Thousands of compromised email credentials were retrieved from his Skype account. Additionally, another arrest was made involving Egbo Martins, a 26-year-old from Delta State, accused of opening and renting bank accounts for cybercriminals involved in a WhatsApp hacking syndicate. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
