The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Kaduna Zonal Directorate, has arrested 11 suspected internet fraudsters in Niger State. The operation took place at White Hotel, located in the Chanchangi Local Government Area, following credible intelligence regarding their involvement in cybercrime activities. EFCC’s Raid on Suspected Internet Fraudsters According to an official statement from the EFCC, the suspects were apprehended on Thursday, February 27, 2025, in a coordinated daylight raid. The anti-graft agency disclosed that two vehicles and 13 mobile phones of various brands were recovered during the operation. “The Commission’s operatives carried out the arrest professionally with no motive or tinge of abduction,” the statement read in part. Conflicting Accounts Surrounding the Raid Despite the EFCC’s clarification, some local residents expressed concerns about the manner of the operation. A source, speaking anonymously, claimed that armed men stormed the hotel around 5 a.m., disabled the CCTV cameras, and raided the premises without identifying themselves as security operatives. “The armed men stormed the hotel very early in the morning, disconnected all CCTV cameras, and carried out the raid without any hindrance. After disarming the security guards, they moved from room to room, apprehending individuals and taking them to an undisclosed location,” the source stated. The source further speculated that some of the guests, possibly foreigners, might have been the target of the operation. “We gathered that some white men lodged in the hotel, and they may have been tracked to their rooms. Reports suggest that no fewer than ten persons were taken,” the source added. EFCC Dismisses Banditry Claims In response to the allegations, the EFCC categorically refuted claims that the operation was conducted by bandits or kidnappers. The Commission assured the public that all necessary legal protocols were followed and that the arrested suspects would be prosecuted in court upon the completion of investigations. For further verification, visit EFCC’s official website to read their latest updates on crime prevention and enforcement. EFCC Official Website READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
The EFCC has urged 2024 NYSC Batch C Stream II corps members to stand against corruption, emphasizing hard work over fraud and the role of youths in national development. Introduction The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called on members of the 2024 Batch C Stream II of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to take a firm stand against corruption. During an orientation lecture at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Yikpata, Edu Local Government Area, Kwara State, the EFCC emphasized the critical role of youths in combating financial crimes and fostering national growth. Youth Empowerment in the Fight Against Corruption The Executive Chairman of EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, delivered this message through the Head of Public Affairs Department, Ilorin Zonal Directorate, Mr. Ayodele Babatunde. He encouraged corps members to serve as whistleblowers, intelligence-gatherers, and active foot soldiers in the fight against corruption. According to Olukoyede, corruption hinders Nigeria’s progress, affecting key sectors such as security, infrastructure, and economic development. He stressed that tackling corruption will unleash the creative potential of Nigerian youths, paving the way for a more prosperous society. Hard Work Over Fraud: No Shortcuts to Success Addressing the issue of cybercrime, popularly known as Yahoo-Yahoo, Olukoyede warned against seeking wealth through fraudulent means. He highlighted the long-term consequences of financial crimes, stating that: Corruption and National Challenges Olukoyede linked corruption to various national challenges, including kidnapping, banditry, and poor infrastructure. He urged the corps members to uphold integrity and contribute positively to society by rejecting corrupt practices. Conclusion: A Call to Action The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating corruption in Nigeria and encouraged NYSC members to join the fight by reporting fraudulent activities and promoting ethical values. With the active participation of youths, Nigeria can achieve sustainable economic growth and national development. 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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Nigerian authorities arrest 105 suspects, including four Chinese nationals, in a crackdown on a fake hotel review scam targeting UK residents. Learn how the scheme operated and the EFCC’s efforts to curb cybercrime. Nigerian authorities dismantle a complex internet fraud network targeting UK residents with fake hotel bookings. In a significant breakthrough against internet fraud, Nigerian authorities have uncovered a sophisticated hotel review scam that primarily targeted UK residents. The operation led to the arrest of 105 individuals, including four Chinese nationals and 101 Nigerians, all involved in the elaborate scheme. How the Scam WorkedThe fraudsters lured unsuspecting victims into leaving ratings for hotels, offering small monetary rewards as an incentive. Victims were then encouraged to make bookings at these “rated” hotels, often costing as much as $500. They were promised repayment with substantial interest via cryptocurrency wallets bearing their names. However, these wallets turned out to be inaccessible, leaving victims empty-handed. EFCC’s Major Operation in AbujaThe Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) spearheaded the operation, which uncovered the syndicate’s base at Naka Hall Plaza, located on Abutu Garba Street in Gudu, Abuja. During the raid, 100 compact workstations used to execute the fraudulent activities were recovered. Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s spokesperson, revealed that the suspects employed fake foreign identities to target their victims, with UK residents being their primary focus. Foreign Nationals as MastermindsThe fraudulent network was reportedly led by the four Chinese nationals who orchestrated and supervised the scam. They recruited and trained young Nigerians in advanced technical skills to act as customer service representatives. These representatives followed a predesigned script to manipulate and deceive victims online. Connection to Previous ScamsThis crackdown follows another major operation weeks earlier, in which 792 suspects, including 148 Chinese nationals, were apprehended for involvement in cryptocurrency and romance scams. The EFCC disclosed that foreign nationals often use corporate apartments masquerading as business centers to train Nigerian accomplices in executing these scams. Growing Trend of Cybercrime TrainingAuthorities have raised concerns over the increasing number of foreign nationals teaching Nigerians internet-related crimes. This alarming trend underscores the need for greater international cooperation to combat cybercrime effectively. ConclusionThe EFCC’s crackdown on this fake hotel review scam highlights the agency’s commitment to curbing cybercrime and protecting unsuspecting victims from falling prey to these schemes. However, the rise of foreign-led fraud networks calls for heightened vigilance and collaboration between local and international authorities. 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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The Nigerian Police have clarified that the alleged theft of N1.09bn from the Enugu State government was a case of procurement fraud, not a cyber-attack. Suspect arrested and funds recovered. The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has officially refuted viral social media claims suggesting that N1.098 billion was stolen from the Enugu State government’s account through hacking, emphasizing that no such breach occurred. According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the circulating rumors are misleading. He clarified that the incident was a case of procurement fraud and not a cyber-attack on the state’s financial system. The statement, titled “Enugu State Government Account Not Hacked – Police Dismiss N1.09bn Theft Claims,” explained that investigations conducted by the National Cyber Crime Centre (NCCC) confirmed the case was procurement-related fraud. The suspect has been apprehended, and the stolen funds have been successfully recovered. Furthermore, the Enugu State Government, in collaboration with other ministries, departments, agencies, and corporate organizations, continues working with the NCCC to strengthen their financial security protocols. The police advised the public to verify news sources before sharing information to prevent the spread of misinformation. 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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The EFCC’s recent arrest of 193 foreigners and 599 Nigerians for cybercrime exposes systemic lapses in security and the need for stronger collaboration between citizens and law enforcement. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently executed its largest single-day operation, apprehending 193 foreigners and 599 Nigerians linked to cryptocurrency and romance scam networks. This significant crackdown underscores the growing threat of cybercrime and its far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s security and global reputation. Details of the Operation Reports reveal that among the arrested foreigners, 114 were Chinese nationals, 40 Filipinos, two Kazakhs, one Pakistani, and one Indonesian. These individuals were part of a syndicate specializing in cybercrime and cryptocurrency investment fraud. The suspects were arrested in a surprise raid at a seven-story building known as Big Leaf Building, located at 7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Lagos. This facility, disguised as a corporate financial institution, served as a training hub for Nigerians in romance and investment scams. These trainees used fraudulent identities to target victims in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Systemic Issues Highlighted The discovery of 193 foreign nationals engaged in organized crime within a single location highlights serious lapses in Nigeria’s security framework. This raises questions about the role of immigration authorities and the efficiency of border control measures. It also points to a troubling disconnect between citizens and law enforcement agencies. Local residents failed to report unusual activities in the area, reflecting a lack of awareness and engagement with security efforts. Recommendations for Improvement The Global Perspective Cybercrime is a global issue, and dismantling these networks requires international cooperation. While the actions of a few tarnish Nigeria’s image, it’s essential to recognize the millions of hardworking and honest Nigerians contributing positively to the nation’s reputation. Conclusion The EFCC’s operation is a commendable step toward combating cybercrime, but sustained efforts are needed to address systemic challenges. By uniting government agencies, financial institutions, and citizens, Nigeria can effectively dismantle criminal networks, restore its global standing, and ensure justice for victims worldwide. 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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Former cybercriminal-turned-cybersecurity consultant Brett Johnson has raised doubts about the possibility of an easy release for Nigerian internet fraudster and social media personality Ramon Abbas, also known as Hushpuppi, who is serving an 11-year sentence in the United States for international fraud. In a recent discussion with journalists, Johnson—who was once on the FBI’s most-wanted list and now advises companies like Microsoft on cybersecurity—remarked that while he was given a second chance after his criminal activities, Hushpuppi may face obstacles in receiving similar opportunities due to existing systemic biases. Johnson said, “Hushpuppi may never get the second chance I did,” emphasizing the challenges Abbas might face because of his background. Speaking at the recent GITEX Global event in Dubai, Johnson shared his experience as the mastermind of ShadowCrew, an early platform for illegal online activities that contributed to today’s darknet markets. After his capture, Johnson worked with the Secret Service as a consultant and informant. Johnson further commented on the racial and socio-economic disparities that often affect rehabilitation opportunities, stating, “The reality is that white males have greater chances than he’s (Abbas) likely to have.” He believes Abbas will encounter substantial hurdles when trying to rebuild his life post-incarceration. READ ALSO: Bandits kill four people in plateau state Before his arrest in Dubai in 2020, Hushpuppi had amassed over two million followers on Instagram, where he displayed a luxurious lifestyle reportedly funded through sophisticated global scams. Johnson suggested that prison could offer Hushpuppi an opportunity for self-improvement, as it did for him. He advised Abbas to use his time in prison to make positive changes, saying, “If you’re a criminal and you want a different life, you can work on that from prison and change your life.” Encouraging rehabilitation, Johnson concluded, “It’s better to help people than to hurt people.”
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According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), four people have been taken into custody for allegedly breaking into an Abuja bank’s system. On October 29, 2024, the EFCC made this information public on its X page. The accused were named by the Commission as Daminan Ali, Mohammed Bello Mahmud (the managing director of Downstone Ultimate Limited), Effiong Victor Emmanuel, and Chima Anthony Nwigwe (who was allegedly the head of the bank hacking syndicate). READ ALSO EFCC claimsAccording to the EFCC, the suspects planned to make “fraudulent withdrawals of depositors’ funds” and obtain “unauthorized access to banks’ computer systems.” Following actionable intelligence regarding their alleged involvement in hacking and accessing commercial banks’ databases, resulting in fraudulent transfers and withdrawals through a variety of digital channels,” the EFCC continued, omitting the bank’s name. The anti-graft agency said that after the investigations were finished, the suspects will face charges in court. Things you should be aware ofAfter the Commission and the parties involved have made their cases, a court with the necessary authority will decide the suspects’ fate, so the EFCC statement stays in the domain of allegations.This development coincides with an increase in fraudulent activity on Nigerian financial platforms, which caused Nigerian banks to lose N42.6 billion in three months between April and June of this year.The Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) disclosed this in its recently published Q2 2024 Fraud and Forgeries report in September. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the sum lost in Q2 2024 alone—excluding the Q1 figures—surpassed the total amount lost to bank fraud in 2023.According to an analysis of FITC data from the previous year, banks lost N9.4 billion in total. Compared to the N468.4 million lost in Q1 2024, the Q2 loss represents an 8,993% rise on a quarterly basis. In comparison to the N5.7 billion loss reported in Q2 2023, this also signifies a 637% rise. The results from the nation’s twenty-eight (28) deposit money institutions form the basis of the FITC report. FITC reports that 80 of these refunds were received during the reviewed quarter. Additional investigation reveals that 26 reports were filed in April. whereas in May and June, there were twenty-seven (27) reports.
