In a decisive move against cybercrime, the Nigeria Police Force – National Cybercrime Center (NPF-NCCC) has successfully uncovered and dismantled a sophisticated cybercrime syndicate operating in a recruitment and mentoring hub in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
This operation, initiated in response to a series of intelligence reports, revealed the syndicate’s deep involvement in various cybercrimes, including Business Email Compromise, Romance Scams, and High-Yield Investment Program Fraud. Following this intelligence, a dedicated team of Cybercrime Forensic Experts and Investigators embarked on a meticulous investigation, which led to the arrest of six suspects at their hideout in the Dantata estate area of the FCT on September 13, 2023.
The arrested individuals, Bernard Joseph, Emmanuel Joseph, Obasi Ikechukwu, Anijiofor Tobechuckwu, Andrew Moses, and Israel Ezekiel, have reportedly confessed to varying degrees of involvement in cybercrime activities, such as identity theft, hacking and trading of hacked Facebook accounts, romance scams, computer-related forgery, and other computer-related fraud, all of which are punishable under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015. It is important to note that the investigation is ongoing, and efforts are underway to apprehend other members of this criminal network who are currently at large.
Inspector General of Police Ag. IGP Olukayode Egbetokun, NPM, Ph.D., has reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to combating crime, regardless of its evolving dynamics. He has directed the Director of NPF-NCCC, Uche Ifeanyi Henry, to maintain unwavering efforts in ensuring the safety of individuals and enterprises online. The IGP also called upon parents, guardians, thought leaders, and social/religious institutions to condemn cybercrime and collaborate with the Police to create a safer digital environment.
The NPF encourages landlords and facility owners to expose any such cybercrime recruitment centers and mentoring hubs observed in their properties, breaking the conspiracy of silence and aiding the fight against cybercrime.
The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to collaborating with partners, stakeholders, and relevant security agencies to combat cybercriminal activities and other forms of criminality across the nation. The public’s support and unwavering commitment are vital in addressing crimes and criminal activities in the country.
Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activities through the dedicated e-reporting portal at [www.incb.npf.gov.ng](http://www.incb.npf.gov.ng) and via email at [policecyberunit@pf.cybersecurity.gov.ng](mailto:policecyberunit@pf.cybersecurity.gov.ng).