In a major clampdown on cybercrime activities, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ilorin Zonal Command, have apprehended no fewer than 49 individuals suspected to be involved in internet fraud in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital. The arrests were made over the weekend, specifically between Saturday, May 24, and Sunday, May 25, 2025, following credible intelligence gathered by the Commission.
Acting on the intelligence, EFCC operatives stormed several locations across the city in a coordinated operation that led to the arrests. The raid unearthed evidence allegedly linking the suspects to various online scam operations, popularly known in Nigeria as “Yahoo Yahoo.”
One of the suspects was found in possession of a loaded, unlicensed pistol. During a preliminary interrogation, the individual claimed to be a former member of a campus cult group, raising further concerns about the growing nexus between cybercrime and violent subcultures among youth. The recovery of the firearm suggests a disturbing trend of internet fraudsters arming themselves, possibly for protection or intimidation.
In addition to the weapon, the anti-graft agency recovered several incriminating items, including sophisticated mobile phones, high-specification laptop computers, and two luxury vehicles believed to be proceeds of fraudulent activities. The value of these items is currently being assessed as part of the ongoing investigation.
The EFCC has assured that all suspects will be arraigned in court once thorough investigations are concluded. The Commission reiterated its commitment to ridding Nigeria of cybercrime and other forms of financial fraud, especially as such crimes continue to tarnish the country’s image on the international stage.
KIIN360 gathered that cybercrime remains one of the major concerns for Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies, particularly with the rise of digital platforms being exploited by criminal networks. This latest operation by the EFCC underscores the agency’s resolve to crack down on internet fraud and restore integrity within the system.
