Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested 18 suspected internet fraudsters in Ogun State.
The suspects were apprehended at Prime Garden Hotel, located in Atun-Iju, Idi-Iroko Road, following actionable intelligence that exposed their alleged involvement in fraudulent online activities.
In a statement on Wednesday, the EFCC said the operation was part of its ongoing efforts to clamp down on cybercrime across the region.
“The suspects were arrested following credible intelligence linking them to internet-related fraud. Our operatives stormed the hotel and effected the arrests without incident,” the statement read.
Among those arrested is a suspected kingpin, who is alleged to have defrauded an individual of a staggering sum of N200 million.
“Preliminary investigation reveals that the kingpin obtained over N200 million from an unsuspecting victim.
“Recovered from him were a red Lexus IS 250, a box of jewelry, both foreign and local currencies, a U.S. driver’s license bearing the name Eva Lovia, and an identification card belonging to a U.S. military officer, Julian Miguel Arroyo,” the EFCC stated.
Items recovered from the other suspects include another vehicle, several laptop computers, and incriminating documents linked to fraudulent activities.
The anti-graft agency said the suspects will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
“The Commission remains committed to ridding the country of economic and financial crimes.
“The suspects will face prosecution as soon as investigations are completed,” the EFCC added.
