20 MAR 2025
EFCC Arraigns Three for N3.4bn, $2,562,203 Alleged Cyber- Terrorism,
Money Laundering
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Monday, March 17, 2025, arraigned two Chinese, Huang Haoyu and An
Hongxu ,alongside a Nigerian, Audu Friday, before Justice Daniel Osiagor of
the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The defendants are standing trial on an 11-count charge bordering on cyber-terrorism,
computer-related offences and money laundering to the tune of N3,407,824,740.78 (Three
Billion, Four Hundred and Seven Million, Eight Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand, Seven
Hundred and Forty Naira, Seventy Eight kobo) and $2,562,203( Two Million, Five Hundred
and Sixty Two Thousand, Two Hundred and Three United States Dollars).
They are members of the syndicate of 792, who were arrested on December 19, 2024 in
Lagos during a surprise operation tagged “Eagle Flush Operation” by operatives of the
EFCC over their alleged involvement in cryptocurrency investment and romance fraud.
Investigations revealed that Friday allegedly incorporated the company, Genting
International Co. Ltd., on the order of Huang Haoyu.
One of the counts reads: “That you, Huang Haoyu, a.k.a Ken, Audu Friday, An Hongxu,
Duliang Pan (at large) and Genting International Co. Ltd, sometime in 2024 in Lagos,
within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, conspired to willfully cause to be
accessed, computer systems organised to seriously destabilise the economic and social
structure of Nigeria (which prohibits and prevents cyber and related crimes) when you,
with intent to gain a financial advantage for yourselves and cronies , procured and
or employed Nigerian youths to falsely represent themselves as persons of foreign
nationalities, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 27 of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015 (As Amended, 2024) and punishable
under Section 18 of the same Act”.
Another count reads: “That you, Huang Haoyu, a.k.a Ken, Audu Friday, An Hongxu, Duliang
Pan (at large) and Genting International Co. Ltd, between August and December 2024, in
Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court , retained in Genting International
Co. limited account number 0225100403 domiciled in Union Bank the sum of N3,407,824,740.78
(Three Billion, Four Hundred and Seven Million, Eight Hundred Twenty Four Thousand, Seven
Hundred and Forty Naira Seventy Eight kobo) which sum you reasonably ought to have known
forms part of the proceeds of unlawful activity to wit: "fraud" and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the of Money
Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022”.
They all pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, Bilkisu Buhari prayed the court for a short
trial date and the defendants’ remand in the EFCC custody.
Counsel to the first defendant, Emeka Okonkwo, SAN, however urged the court to remand the
defendants in the EFCC custody, pending the hearing of the bail application before the court.
Justice Osiagor remanded the defendants in the custody of the EFCC and also adjourned the
matter for hearing of the bail application.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-three-for-n3-4bn-2-562-203-alleged-cyber-terrorism-money-laundering
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20 MAR 2025
Courts Send 20 Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Makurdi
The convicts are: Abdulazeez Musa, Akpam Demetrius Oderdoo, Idris Musa Oguga,
Godwin Chibuike Dimoji, Egbo Emmanuel Chimezie, Godwin Nnamdi Marcus, Cyprian
Okafor, Adewale Lukman, Henry Ifebuche Thomas, Ikper Tavershima Francis and
James Inalegwu Godwin.
Others are: Ugochukwu Hycinth Emeka, Kingley Chukwuemeka Kalu, Joseph Christopher
Aondowase, Daniel Ugwu Chidubem, Ahar Aondongu Joseph,Terna Moses Velumun, Peter
Chigozie Alliswell, Kelvin Akor Oche and Apine Terver.
They were prosecuted by the Makurdi Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC on separate one-count charge that bordered on impersonation,
obtaining by false pretence and possession of fraudulent documents.
The charge against Lukman reads: "That you Adewale Lukman (M) (21 years old) sometime
between February 2024 and February 2025 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court with intent to defraud, and for the purpose of procuring the issuance
of a card, sent false electronic messages on Facebook to unsuspecting foreign nationals
"American citizens" which they relied upon respecting your identity as one Elon Musk,
an American national causing them wrongly lost to the tune of $2300 ( Two Thousand Three
Hundred USD) by your deceit which you transfered to your UBA account number 7039010094
and Opay account number 2350863311, and thereby committed an offence contrary to section
2 (3)of the cybercrime ( Prohibition, Prevention ETC ) Act 2015 and punishable under
Section the same section.”
The charge against Okafor reads: “That you, Cyprian Okafor "M" 23 years sometime in
2024 and 2025 in FCT, Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did
fraudulently impersonate the identity of one "Zhang Wei" a citizen of Taichung,
Taiwan by fraudulently using his identity through internet to create fake social
media profile with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 22(2)(b)(1) of the Cybercrime ( Prohibition, Prevention.
ETC) Ac, 2015 and punishable under section 22(2)(b)(IV) of the same Act.”
They all pleaded “guilty” to the charges when they were read to them, prompting
prosecution counsel, Ramiah Ikhanaede, M.Yusuf, A.S.Idris, A.Gazali, Uwaisu Yusuf,
K.T.Sunday, and Imadifon Igbnidu to ask the court to convict and sentence them
accordingly, while the defence counsels prayed the court to temper justice with
mercy, stating that they have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice M.S.Abubakar convicted and sentenced Aondowase, Chiduben, Joseph,
Verlumun, Alliswell, Oche and Terver to one year imprisonment each with options
of fine. In addition, Chidubem to restitute the sum of N1,000,000 (One Million
Naira) to his victim, while Verlumun and Joseph forfeited the sum of N5,000,000
( Five Million Naira ) each to the federal government.
Justice R.J Egbe convicted and sentenced Musa, Oderdoo, Oguga, Dimoji, Thomas,
Francis, Chimezie, Marcus, Okafor, Lukman, Emeka, Kalu and Godwin to one year
imprisonment each or to pay fines ranging from N100,000 ( One Hundred Thousand
Naira to N300,000 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira).
In addition to their sentences the convicts forfeited all items recovered from them,
including mobile phones, laptop computers and sums of money seen in their bank accounts
to the federal government. Okafor further forfeited his Mercedes Benz C300 with Chassis
Number WDDGF8BB0CR234168 and registration Number KUJ 300 FA to the federal
government.Their journey to the correctional centre began when they were arrested
by the operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Directorate of the EFCC in an intelligence-driven
sting operation.
The press release contains photos of some of the 419ers:
courts-send-20-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-makurdi
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20 MAR 2025
Court Jails Man for Internet Fraud in Kwara
Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar of the Kwara State High Court, sitting in Ilorin
on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, convicted and sentenced one Olowookere Temitope
to six months imprisonment for internet fraud.
The convict was prosecuted by the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on a one-count charge that bordered
on cheating by personation.
The charges reads: "That you, Olowookere Temitope, sometime between 2023
and 2024 in Offa, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did cheat
by personation when you pretended to be unsypathisch, a verified streaming app,
and in that guise induced one psychological wolf, via your discord account on
twitch to send you the sum of $400 (Four Hundred Dollars) which you did receive
via Gift Cards and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 321 of the
Penal Code and punishable under Section 324 of the same Penal Code.”
He pleaded “guilty” to the charge following which prosecution counsel, Innocent
Mbachie reviewed the facts of the case, tendered the convict’s extra-judicial
statements in evidence, including the sum of $300 (Three Hundred United States
Dollars) recovered from him and prayed the court to convict and sentence him as
charged.
Convinced that the prosecution has proven its case beyond reasonable doubt,
Justice Abdulgafar sentenced Olowookere to six months suspended jail term and
ordered that the sum of $300 (Three Hundred United States Dollars) recovered
from him be forfeited to the federal government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-man-for-internet-fraud-in-kwara
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20 MAR 2025
29 Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms in Benin City
Justices A.N. Erhabor and W. I. Aziegbemhin of Edo State High Courts, sitting
in Benin City have convicted and sentenced 29 internet fraudsters to various
jail terms.
The convicts are: Edeyibo Rukewe Hope, Igbafe David, Emakhu Bonfrey, Genesis
Ndujifor, Okolosie Godstime, Chukwu David, Ebuka Emmanuel, Akhere Akahomhen,
Odiniru Emeka Vet, Obiora Mike Kelvin, Stephen Eghosa, Osagioduwa Samuel Aivihenyor,
Lucky Ekhator, Ekechukwu Chima Stanley, Lucky Moses, David Odiniru, Christopher
Alex, Orovirie Sunny, Abraham Ifeanyi and Aisosa Vincent.
Others are: Agbede Shola Harrison, Endurance Ebalukpe, Igbiniken Osarvmwense,
Okonoboh Senator Odiegie, Joseph Imhangbegbe, Orion Aigbona, Godstime Adebor,
Ambrose Otsemeuno and Mattew Obayuywana
They were prosecuted by the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC on separate one-count charge, bordering on obtaining by
false pretence, advance fee fraud, retention of proceeds of crime and possession
of fraudulent documents.
The charge against Hope reads: "That you Edeyibo Rukewe Hope (m) on or about
the 27th of February, 2025 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
have in your possession, documents which you knew or ought to have known
contained false pretence, thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 6
and 8 (b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006
and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act.”
All the defendants pleaded “guilty” to their charges when they were read to them,
prompting prosecution counsel, F.A Jirbo, K Y. Bello, Isa K. Agwai, Faisal Ibrahim,
Al-Amin Ibrahim Abdul, Bala-Ribah and Salihu Ahmed to pray the court to convict
and sentence them accordingly, while counsel to the defendants pleaded with the
court to temper justice with mercy, stating that they have become remorseful for
their actions.
Justice Erhabor convicted and sentenced Hope, David, Bonfrey, David, Emmanuel,
Akahomhen, Sunny, Ifeanyi, Vincent, Otsemeuno, Ebalukpe, Harrison, Osarvmwense,
Odiegie, Imhangbegbe, Aigbona, Adebor and Obayuywana to two years imprisonment
each or to pay N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine respectively,
Justice Aziegbemhin convicted and sentenced Ndujifor and Godstime to two years
imprisonment each or to pay N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, respectively.
The judge slammed Kelvin, Eghosa, Aivihenyor, Ekhator, Stanley, Moses, Osarvmwense,
Vet and Alex to two years imprisonment, each or to pay N400,000 (Four Hundred Thousand
Naira) fine respectively,
The judge ordered the forfeiture of a Red Color Mercedes Benz C300 with Registration
number BEN258CM recovered from Odiniru Emeka Vet being proceeds of crime to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
In addition to their sentences, all the convicts forfeited all items recovered from them
to the federal government, including phones, computers, money and cars and undertook in
writing to be of good behaviour going forward.
The convicts’ journey to the correctional centre began with their arrest in a sting
operation by operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC following credible
intelligence that linked them to fraudulent internet activities.
The press release contains photos:
29-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-benin-city
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20 MAR 2025
BDC Operators Bag Sentences in Kwara
Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ilorin, Kwara State
has sentenced one Musa Buba to 300 (Three Hundred) hours of community service at the
rate of five hours of work per day for operating bureau de change without a valid
licence. The sentence is without an option of a fine.
Similarly, he sentenced one Akinwale Olamilekan from Owena Ijesha in Oriade Local
Government Area of Osun State to 300 (Three Hundred) hours of community service,
also at the rate of five hours of work daily for commiting internet fraud. The
sentence is without an option of a fine.
Both convicts were arraigned on March 20, 2025 by the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on separate one-count charge,
bordering on illegal operation of BDC services and fraudulent impersonation,
respectively.
The charge against Buba reads: "That you, Musa Buba, sometime in July 2024 at
Chikanda Market, Yashikira District, Baruten Local Government Area, Kwara State,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did carry on the business of
another financial institution, to wit: Bureau de Change Business, without a
valid license issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria, contrary to Section 57
(1) & (2) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, 2020, and punishable
under Section 57(5)(b) of the same Act."
The charge against Olamilekan reads: "That you, Akinwale Olamilekan (Alias: Mary
Williams), sometime in November 2024, within the judicial division of the Federal
High Court, did fraudulently impersonate one Mary Williams via your iMessage account
to obtain the sum of $950 (Nine Hundred and Fifty US Dollars) from one Mark Durham,
thereby committing an offence contrary to Section 22 (2)(b)(ii) of the Cybercrime
(Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act and punishable under Section 22 (2)(b)(iv) of
the same Act."
They pleaded “guilty” to their respective charge.
Convinced by the facts of the case and the uncontroverted evidence, presented by
prosecution counsel, Andrew Akoja, Justice Awogboro convicted and sentenced them
accordingly.
In addition to his sentence, Buba forfeited to the federal government the sum of
409,500 CFA and N1,973,200 (One Million, Nine Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand,
Two Hundred Naira Only), recovered from him at the point of arrest, while Akinwale
restituted his victim with the sum of $450 (Four Hundred and Fifty US Dollars),
being proceeds of his crime. He also forfeited iPhone 12 Pro Max, being the
instrument of his crime to the federal government.
bdc-operators-bag-sentences-in-kwara
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17 MAR 2025
EFCC Arrests 21 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Bauchi
Operatives of the Gombe Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Saturday, March 15, 2025 arrested 21 suspected internet
fraudsters in Bauchi, Bauchi State.
The suspects were arrested based on credible intelligence on their alleged
involvement in internet-related fraud at Kaure New Government Reservation
Area, GRA, Bauchi and Awala, Maiduguri road, Bauchi state.
Items recovered from them at the point of arrest include one BMW and Toyota
Camry cars, three play station 5, 30 expensive phones, one flat screen television
set, six Point of Sale, POS, machines, four ipads, and five laptops.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-21-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-bauchi
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17 MAR 2025
EFCC Arraigns Woman for Alleged N6.8m Romance Scam in Maiduguri
The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Monday, March 17, 2025 arraigned one Catherine Ijeoma Ugwu before Justice
Aisha Kumaliya of the Borno State High Court Maiduguri.
The defendant was arraigned on a four -count charge bordering on obtaining by false
pretence, criminal misappropriation and cheating by impersonation to the tune of
N6, 815,300.00 (Six Million Eight Hundred and Fifteen Thousand Three Hundred Naira
only).
Count one reads: “That you Catherine Ijeoma Ugwu between the period of June, 2023
to August, 2024 in Maiduguri, Borno State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, with intent to defraud obtained the aggregate sum of N6, 710,300.00 (Six Million
Seven Hundred and Ten Thousand Three Hundred Naira) from Emmanuel Ani into your
bank account: 1778806195 domiciled with Access Bank plc. under the pretence that
same is meant for the upkeep of his purported fiancee, one Miss Chinansa, which you
knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud related Offences Act, 2006.”
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to her.
Counsel to the prosecution S.O Saka and Faruku Muhammad prayed the court for a trial
date and for the remand of the defendant in a Correctional Centre.
Justice Kumaliya thereafter adjourned the matter till April 8, 2025 for commencement
of trial and remanded the defendant in a Correctional Centre.
Ugwu’s journey to the Correctional Centre started when she obtained the sum of N6.8million
by impersonating and pretending to be the fiancée of the petitioner. When contacted by the
petitioner, the defendant can neither account for or return the money she collected.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-woman-for-alleged-n6-8m-romance-scam-in-maiduguri
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15 MAR 2025
Alleged $968,000 Fraud: How Fake US Engineer Duped Me-Witness
The trial of Wawe Eseoghene Nelson, a.k.a James Andrew Shmit and Philip Bradley
before Justice Aliyu Halilu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja
commenced on Thursday, March 14, 2025 with the presentation of the First Prosecution
Witness, PW1, Kathleen Sharp by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Nelson, arraigned on February 11, 2025 is facing prosecution by the EFCC on 11
count-charges bordering on advance fee fraud, impersonation, conspiracy and obtaining
under false pretence to the tune of $968,000 (Nine Hundred and Sixty-eight Thousand
Dollars), allegedly obtained from two US victims, Sharp and Holly Stamm.
Count one of his charge reads: “That you, Wawe Esoghene Nelson (a.k.a James Andrew
Smith) sometime in 2023 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court with
intent to defraud, obtained the sum of One Hundred and Fifty-Five Thousand Dollars
($155,000) from one Kathleen Sharp, living in the United States of America with Telephone
Number +130259***** through Chase Bank with account name Pearl and Allison Llc, account
number 952177670, Routing 021000021, account address 35 Knollwood Dr Aptos CA 95003
with bank address at 1990 41st Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010 under the false pretence that
you are James Andrew Smith, a Petroleum Engineer from United States of America that is
into engineering project, relating to petroleum project which pretence you knew was false
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud
and other Fraud Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act.”
Count 11 reads: “That you Wawe Esoghene Nelson (a.k.a Philip Bradley) sometime in 2022
at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable court with intent to defraud, obtained
the sum of One Hundred and Twenty Thousand Dollars ($120,000.00) from one Holly Stamm, a
Citizen of United States of America with email address stammu*****2@gmail.com through
Bitcoin and under the false pretence that you are James Andrew Shmit a Petroleum Engineer
from United States of America that is into engineering project relating to petroleum
exploration and that the said sum will be used to secure a petroleum project which pretence
you knew was false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1) (a)of the
Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under Section
1(3) of the same Act.”
He pleaded not guilty to all the charges when they were read to him, prompting his trial.
Led in evidence by prosecuting counsel, Maryam Aminu Ahmed, the witness narrated how
the defendant lured her via the social media into sending him money in the guise of
financing a project and would repay her when the project yielded dividends upon completion.
“I was contacted by the Commission that they discovered that I was defrauded by one James
Andrew Shmit via social media platform. We communicated over social media where he
presented himself as an engineer working at BP Oil in the Gulf of Mexico. He started by
asking for funds because he did not have access to his personal funds and the credit situation
in connection with the project required a large amount of funds with the promise that it will
be returned and he will avail the funds to me. The total funds are $183,000 (One Hundred
and Eighty-three Thousand Dollars) through three instalments, one by wired certificate
cheque, two instalments by wired transfer. The first one was for $45,500, (Forty-five
Thousand Dollars), the second one was $131,000 (One Hundred and Thirty-one Dollars) and
the third was $7000 (Seven Thousand Dollars) I wired. I have not been paid my money. After
the third instalment, he pushed me to pay another $10,000 (Ten Thousand Dollars), but I
did not pay. There was a picture on his profile, he has brown hair and white. I will like
the refund of the investment and funds and he should be persecuted for his actions,” she
said.
Justice Halilu adjourned to April 16, 2025 for cross examination of the witness.
alleged-968-000-fraud-how-fake-us-engineer-duped-me-witness
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14 MAR 2025
EFCC Arrests 30 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Asaba, Delta State
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday March 14, 2025 arrested 30 suspected
internet fraudsters in Asaba, Delta State.
The suspects were arrested based on credible intelligence on their alleged
involvement in internet-related fraud.
Items recovered from them at the point of arrest include five exotic cars
and phones.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-30-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-asaba-delta-state
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12 MAR 2025
Courts Jail 32 Internet Fraudsters in Ibadan
Justices Ladiran Akintola, O.S. Adeyemi, K.B. Olawoyin, G.A. Sunmonu of the Oyo
State High Court and Justice Nkeonye Maha of the Federal High Court, sitting in
Ibadan. Oyo State, have convicted and sentenced thirty-two persons to prison
for fraud.
They were prosecuted by the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on separate one-count charges bordering on impersonation,
internet-related offences.
The convicts are: Kolade Olayinka Akinlosotu, Adetoro Kolawole Jelili, Olatunji Opeyemi
Matthew, Ehifowoju Kehinde Emmanuel, Basit Akorede Mustapha, Banjoko Olamide Oriyomi,
Badmus Quazeem Damilola, Ikumapayi Olalekan Babajide, Muili Olamilekan Sodiq, Odususi
Yemi Michael, Ashiru Adebola Ibrahim, Ayomide Olamide Ogidan, Fatusin Michael Abayomi,
Omotosho Oluwapelumi James, Adewale Ibikunle Abdullahi, Ismail Ibrahim Friday, Adedara
Ademola Ayobami and Ajayi Elijah Oladimeji.
Others are: Oladele Salam, Olasunkanmi Kadril Yakub, Ayomide Hassan Omolade, Ojo Oluwanifemi
Emmanuel, Temitope Gbenga Agbaminoja, Oyewale Timileyin Ayodeji, Olajide Lekan Peter, Obaoye
Samuel Olaoluwa, Ajayi Okiki Michael, Mustapha Quadri Ayinde, Oluwatimilehin Noah Ojo, Oluwajana
Segun Joseph, Oluwashina Gbenga Adeniyi and Kolawole Ojukotimi Adebesin.
The charge against Akinlosotu reads: “That you, Kolade Olayinka Akinlosotu sometime in May,
2023 at Ibadan, Oyo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to
defraud one Orlando Mejia, did falsely represent yourself as one Amanda Smith, a woman from
Texas, United States of America through Facebook with account name Amanda Smith, thereby
committed an offence of impersonation, contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Cap 38,
Laws of Oyo State, 2000.”
They all pleaded “guilty” when the charges were read to them, upon which prosecution counsel,
Modupe Akinkoye, Oluwatoyin Owodunni, Chidi Okoli, Sanusi Galadanchi, Lanre Suleiman, Mabas
Mabur, Shamsuddeen Bashir, David Olubode and A.M. Aliyu prayed the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Olawoyin convicted and sentenced Peter to two years imprisonment or to pay
N500, 000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, and Ayodeji to one year imprisonment or to pay
N250, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine, while Justice Maha convicted and sentenced
Abayomi to one year imprisonment or to pay N250, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine.
Justice Adeyemi on her part, convicted and sentenced Oriyomi and Ibrahim to one year imprisonment
each without option of fine. Ayobami, Abdullahi and Ayinde bagged six months community service each,
without an option of fine. She convicted and sentenced Ojo, Mustapha and Adebesin to three months
community service each without option of fine.
Justice Akintola convicted and slammed Oladimeji, Joseph and Olaoluwa with one year jail term
each or to pay a fine of N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira, N40, 000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira)
and N150, 000. 00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) respectively.
He slammed Adeniyi with six months jail term or to pay N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand
Naira) fine, while Jelili bagged six months community service or to pay N150, 000.00 (One Hundred
and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine. Michael and Olamide got three months jail term each or to pay
N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) fine, each.
Also convicted and sentenced by Justice Akintola were Kehinde Emmanuel, Babajide, Sodiq, James,
Salam, Yakub, Omolade, Oluwanifemi Emmanuel, Agbaminoja, Okiki Michael and Friday who bagged
three months of community service each or to pay N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00
(Fifty Thousand Naira), N75, 000.00 (Seventy-five Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand
Naira), N75, 000.00 (Seventy-five Thousand Naira), N40, 000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00
(Fifty Thousand Naira), N40, 000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira), N40, 000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira),
N30, 000.00 (Thirty Thousand Naira) and N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) respectively.
Furthermore, Justice Akintola convicted and sentenced Matthew and Damilola to a fine of N30, 000.00
(Thirty Thousand Naira) and N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) respectively.
Justice Sunmonu convicted and sentenced Akinlosotu to three months community service without an
option of fine.
Besides their sentences, all the convicts forfeited items recovered from them to the federal government.
These include money, phones and laptop computers. Others are a green-coloured Toyota Camry 2205 model
car with registration number: EPE – 232 – GU recovered from Oriyomi, a wine-coloured Toyota Camry vehicle
with registration number: MUS – 84 – GU recovered from Ibrahim, a red-coloured Toyota Corolla car with
chassis number: 2T1BU4EE3AC495391, recovered from Olaoluwa, a black-coloured Toyota Camry car with
registration number: MUS – 683 – HJ, recovered from Adeniyi and a golden-coloured Toyota Camry vehicle
with chassis number: 411BE46KX8U203665 recovered from Abdullahi.
In addition, the court ordered that Ayobami pay the sum of N2.5million (Two Million, Five Hundred
Thousand Naira) as restitution to his victim.
The press release contains photos of some of the 419ers:
courts-jail-32-internet-fraudsters-in-ibadan
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11 MAR 2025
U.S Mission Nigeria Reaffirms Robust Relationship with EFCC
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Richard M. Mills Jr.
has reaffirmed that the robust working relationship between the United States
government and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, would continue
in order to achieve significant success in the fight against economic and financial
crimes and other acts of corruption.
He stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 when he led a delegation of the
US Mission in Nigeria on a familiarization visit to the Executive Chairman of the
EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede at the Commission’s corporate headquarters.
“I'm very grateful for the relationship we have both through our legal attache and
with these other offices here. The US government was strongly supportive of the creation
of the EFCC when it was established and our relationship has continued since then. I'm
here today to learn a little bit about what the Chairman's priorities are for the EFCC
moving forward; what you see as the key trends in financial crimes that you're addressing
and how the U.S. government and U.S. Mission can assist you, either with information
sharing or sharing of expertise, closer cooperation in specific cases”, he said.
Explaining further, Mills pointed out that, “part of the reason we're so interested in
these issues is because they affect both our countries and they affect what we're both
trying to do, which is to create a secure, prosperous Nigeria and build our economies,
both the US and the Nigerians”.
He stated strongly that the work of the EFCC in the areas of anti-corruption, counter-
terrorism and money laundering were of priority to the US government and the US Mission
in Nigeria. “This office is at the epicenter of the work being done to counter corruption,
financial terrorism, counter-terrorism, money laundering. And that is a high priority for
the US Government and for this mission. And as you can see, it involves several offices
at the US Mission. Our economic team follows these issues closely, especially anti money
laundering, counterterrorism, financing, and has engaged with members of your staff on
that issue”, he said.
Olukoyede, who was delighted with the visit, took the delegation on a brief tour of the
mandate of the EFCC. “In the EFCC, our mandate is to fight economic and financial crimes
not only to prevent them. We have a mandate to prevent, to investigate and where one has
occurred to also prosecute and by extension we also recover assets in the course of our
work, which are one way or the other subject to the directive of the Federal Executive
Council, led by the President to manage them.
While recognizing that Nigeria over the years has had a beneficial relationship with the
US government and its agencies in EFCC’s efforts to sanitize the country’s financial space,
Olukoyede looked forward to amplified relationship with the US government and the US Mission
in Nigeria for improved outcomes in the fight against corruption and financial crimes.
“The relationship between the United States of America and Nigeria in relation to the fight
against financial crimes dates way back and has been one of very strong synergy and mutually
beneficial collaboration. Nigeria and America have been having mutual cooperation particularly
in the area of the fight against financial crimes. And this we hope to build on, to strengthen
and to take to the next level”, he said.
He sued for enhanced support and collaboration stressing that, “the support is needed
especially in the areas of technology, intelligence gathering and sharing and human capital
development. We recognize the fact that most of the work we do is intelligence-driven. And
when we talk of intelligence, we are talking of technology. So we need your support in that
area. And also need it in capacity building, collaboration, information and intelligence
sharing which is very important. And we are requesting that America needs to reciprocate
by attending to our requests on time because we notice that maybe you consider your laws
and all of that. We will just wish you could fast track your response to some of our requests.
We would really appreciate it if you can improve on that during your tenure,” he said.
Speaking further, the EFCC boss disclosed some of his recent efforts at curbing visa fraud
that pose an endless challenge to foreign missions in the country. “Just last year, I established
the Visa Application and Immigration Fraud Section in EFCC and we have its desks all across our
zonal offices to deal with issues that have to do with visa racketeering and immigration fraud.
It is a dedicated desk that works 48 hours. And we'll be having good results. So we also need
your support in that area in the exchange of information and intelligence with us and in technology
and gadgets you can support us with. The Nigeria government is willing to collaborate more with
the government of the United States to work more for the mutual interests of both countries”,
he said
The press release contains photos:
u-s-mission-nigeria-reaffirms-robust-relationship-with-efcc
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10 MAR 2025
Your Voices Matter in Tackling Scourge of Internet Fraud- EFCC Charges Students
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola
Olukoyede, has tasked students across the country to be loud in their opposition to any
form of internet fraud, stressing that their voices matter in tackling the menace
He made the appeal on Monday, March 10, 2025, during a sensitization and re-engagement
visit to Doveland International School, Abuja. The event, held at the school’s assembly
hall, was aimed at enlightening students about the dangers of internet fraud and corruption.
Representing the Chairman at the event, Head of the Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit
of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACEII Aisha Mohammed reiterated the
Commission’s commitment to engaging the youth in the fight against corruption, stressing
that talking loudly against corruption could positively cause a change of attitude by
fraudsters and even the older generation.
“The future belongs to you. That’s why we are here, urging you to join this fight and secure
a better future. The older generations are phasing out, and without proper guidance, the mess
will keep recycling. Your voices matter. You matter. Please join us in this crusade and make
Nigeria a better place for us all. Shun Yahoo Yahoo, exam malpractice, bullying, drugs, and
other social vices,” she said.
Mr. Chris Oluka, Head of the Creative Communications Unit of the EFCC, urged the students to
be good ambassadors of Nigeria and play active roles in rebuilding the nation’s reputation. He
emphasized that the havoc being wreaked by internet fraudsters on the country’s image requires
proactive efforts, particularly from the youth, to change the negative narrative.
“We are here today to let you know that you can be good ambassadors, foot soldiers, and take
the front seat in this crusade to champion the fight against other social vices,” he said.
He encouraged the students to live upright lives and even educate their parents on the negative
effects of corruption and how it hampers national development. Recalling his school days, Olukoyede
noted that in his time, public school students enjoyed free education, including bursaries, uniforms,
books, and food.
“Why don’t we have those things now? It’s because of corruption. Corruption is the reason we have
bad roads, dilapidated hospitals and schools, lack of potable drinking water, unstable power supply,
brain drain, poor working environments, and inadequate educational facilities. I’m saying enough is
enough; let’s drive this fight together now and safeguard your future,” he said.
In her presentation, Eniola Kayode from the Cybercrime Section of the EFCC warned the students about
the dangers of engaging with strangers online. She explained that doing so could make them easy targets
for sextortion and other cybercrimes.
Kayode also cautioned against clicking on suspicious links sent to their devices, as hackers could
easily gain access to sensitive information and then attempt to blackmail them. To avoid such threats,
she advised the students not to keep nude pictures on their phones.
“When hackers gain access to your devices, they can start holding you to ransom. When this happens,
report immediately to the EFCC, the police, your parents, or a trusted adult and ignore the threats
from criminals,” she said.
The event also featured a quiz competition where students, Nifemi Odeseye and Yosola Ogunsola, emerged
as winners. They were rewarded with brand-new mobile phones and were also appointed as EFCC Ambassadors
to further spread the anti-corruption message among their peers.
The EFCC’s visit to Doveland International School is part of its ongoing effort to engage young Nigerians
and promote integrity, discipline, and patriotism in the fight against corruption.
your-voices-matter-in-tackling-scourge-of-internet-fraud-efcc-charges-students
************************************************
10 MAR 2025
EFCC Arrests 14 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Jos
The Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC have arrested fourteen suspected internet fraudsters.
They were arrested in K-Vom and Rayfield areas in Jos, Plateau State on Saturday
March 8, 2025 following credible intelligence on their suspected involvement in
internet-related activities.
Items recovered from them include five laptops, 13 phones and two power banks.
The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
efcc-arrests-14-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-jos
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6 MAR 2025
Court Jails 21 Internet Fraudsters in Benin City
The Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
has secured the conviction and sentence of 21 internet fraudsters before Justices
A.N. Erhabor and W. I. Aziegbemhin of Edo State High Courts, sitting in Benin City.
The convicts are: Eimuen Nathaniel, Ighagbon Anderson Andy, Precious Aigbokhai,
Divine Ebosetale Okhitie, Ekpekurede Valour, Akuson Sunday, Oshoikpor Joshua,
Onumegu Chukwuebuka Emmanuel, Sylvester Oseokoedion, Osifor Kenneth, Abraham
Eromosele, Aliu Sanusi Aliu.
Others are: Donald Emuen, Oseghale Paris, Amavu Paul, Godsent Omokhoa, Omere
Osabvohien Love, Stephen Edetalen Obhanoghor, Segun Nelson Owoyele, Emmanuel
Essence and Oriarewoh Divine Eronmonsele
They were prosecuted on a separate one-count charge bordering on obtaining by
false pretence, retention of proceeds of crime and possession of fraudulent
documents.
The charge against Eimuen Nathaniel reads: "That you Nathaniel (m) on or about
the 14th of February, 2025 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
have in your possession, documents which you knew or ought to have known contained
false pretence, thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 6 and 8 (b) of
the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable
under Section 1(3) of the same Act.”
All the defendants pleaded “guilty” to their charges when they were read to them,
prompting the prosecution counsel, F.A Jirbo, K Y. Bello, Isa K. Agwai, Faisal
Ibrahim, Al-Amin Ibrahim Abdul, Bala-Ribah and Salihu Ahmed to pray the court to
convict and sentence them accordingly, while counsel to the defendants pleaded
with the court to temper justice with mercy, stating that they have become remorseful
for their actions.
Justice Erhabor convicted and sentenced Love, Valour, Sunday, Oriarewoh Eromosele,
Okoedion, Omokhoa and Kenneth to two years imprisonment, each or to pay N200, 000
(Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine respectively, while he slammed Obhanoghor, Okhitie
and Paul with three years imprisonment each or to pay N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand
Naira) fine, respectively.
Justice W.I. Aziegbemhin convicted and sentenced Owoyele and Esence to two years
imprisonment each or to pay N300, 000 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira) and N600, 000
(Six Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, respectively. He slammed Andy, Aigbokhai, Joshua
and Emmanuel to two years imprisonment, each or to pay N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand
Naira) fine respectively, while Nathaniel, Abraham Eromonsele, Aliu and Paris bagged
two years imprisonment or to pay N400,000 (Four Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, while
Emuen bagged three years imprisonment or to pay a fine of N600,000 (Six Hundred Thousand
Naira).
In addition to their sentences, all the convicts forfeited their phones, computers
and money, found in their respective bank accounts to the federal government of Nigeria
and undertook in writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The convicts’ journey to the correctional centre began with their arrest in a sting
operation by operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC following intelligence
that linked them to fraudulent internet activities.
The press release contains photos of some of the 419ers:
court-jails-21-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
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6 MAR 2025
EFCC Arraigns Three for N74m Fraud in Maiduguri
The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 arraigned three defendants before Justice K. Dagat
of the Federal High Court, Maiduguri.
They are; Vincent Markus (a.k.a kayluvjaybaby), Ahmed Aliyu Maiizawaka alongside
his company Maizawaka De-Crawler Nigeria Limited and Enoch Adebayo Richard.
The defendants were arraigned on separate count charges bordering on money laundering,
impersonation, obtaining money by false pretences and internet related offences to an
aggregate sum of N74,636,943 ( Seventy Four Million, Six Hundred and Thirty Six Thousand,
Nine Hundred and Forty Three Naira only)
The charge against Marcus read:
“That you, Vincent Markus (a.k.a kayluvjaybaby) ‘M’ on or about 11th day of July,
2024 at Maiduguri, Borno State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
directly take possession of the aggregate sum of N 27,636,943.62 (Twenty Seven Million
Six Hundred and Thirty Six Thousand Nine Hundred and Forty Three Naira, Two Kobo) into
your Kuda Microfinance Bank Limited account with account number 2014444920, Vincent
Markus being the value for crypto currency, cash apps, pampay and gift cards which sum
you knew or reasonably ought to have known is proceeds of your fraud or form part of
proceeds of your unlawful act to falsely representing yourself to unsuspecting foreign
nationals amongst who are Jayj77 with tiktok account alwayzjj@yahoo.com, Zahra Khan (aka)
Reel Gems @screensages), Megan Hoffman @meagan0060, Marisol Bruce, Edwin Amilar Lobo
Medina e.t.c a United States of American Citizens through electronic messages on Tiktok
account, @kayluvjaybbaby and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 18(2) (d)
of the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022 and punishable under Section
18(3) of the same Act”
The charge against Maiizawaka read:
“That you, Ahmed Aliyu Maiizawaka, being the CEO and alter ego of Maizawaka De-Crawler
Nigeria Limited and Maizawaka De-Crawler Nigeria Limited, a company registered in Nigeria
sometime in February 2019, at Maiduguri, Borno State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, did directly converted the aggregate sum of N9,000,000.00 (Nine Million Naira) which
you ought to have known that it forms part of proceed of an unlawful act to wit: obtaining
under false pretence and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section
18(2) (b) of the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022 and punishable under
section 18(3) of the same Act”
While the charge against Richard read:
“That you, Enoch Adebayo Richard between 2022 and 2024 at Maiduguri, Borno State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did directly take possession of United States of American
Dollars denominated cash app and gift coins worth about $40 (Forty United States of American
Dollars) from foreign nationals like Victor Adrian Brnard, Stephanie Scotts, Meldda Sana Jane
amongst others which you upon conversion to naira amounted to an aggregate sum of N 38,000,000.00
(Thirty Eight Million Naira ) only paid into your Opay, Microfinance Bank number 9015469104, Enoch
Adebayo Richard, being the naira equivalent value for the cash app and gift coins which you knew
or reasonably ought to have known is proceeds of your fraud or form part of proceeds of your fraud
or form part of proceeds of an unlawful act and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
18(2) (d) of the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022 and punishable under Section
18(3) of the same Act.”
The defendants pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them. Thereafter, prosecution
counsel Faruku Muhammad prayed for a trial date and the remand of the defendants in a Correctional
Centre.
Justice Dagat thereafter adjourned till May, 14, 12 and 24, 2025 for the commencement of trial
and remanded the defendants in a Correctional Centre.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-three-for-n74m-fraud-in-maiduguri
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4 MAR 2025
EFCC, France to Collaborate on Asset Tracking and Cybersecurity Training
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and the French government
have expressed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the areas of
asset tracking, cybercrime investigation, and security training.
This disclosure was made in Abuja on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 when Lieutenant
General Regis Colombet, Director of Security and Defence Cooperation at the
French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, paid a Courtesy visit to the
Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede at the Commission’s corporate
headquarters.
Colombet highlighted France’s extensive collaboration across various security
domains, particularly in the establishment of specialized academic and training
centres. He cited the Cyber School in Dakar, Senegal, where training on cyber
investigations, ransomware threats and criminal investigations related to asset
tracking, are taking place. Additionally, he mentioned an Academy in Abidjan,
Cote d'Ivoire, dedicated to counterterrorism training alongside several other
academic and security training.
“In our cooperation, we prioritize developing academic centres and training hubs,
particularly in areas such as cyber investigations and security threats. We provide
training opportunities, including specialized courses in France, to enhance expertise
in security and defence. Since crime has no borders, international collaboration is
essential, and the EFCC’s role in combating financial and cybercrimes is crucial to
our collective security efforts”, he said.
He emphasized that the visit was a follow up to a strategic meeting held in December
2024, aimed at reinforcing partnerships and identifying ways to implement more effective
cooperation between Nigeria and France. He pointed out that France’s security collaboration
extended beyond military cooperation to include cyber security, home affairs, civil defence,
and broader security concerns.
Responding, Olukoyede, welcomed the collaboration, noting the longstanding relationship
between Nigeria and France in tackling crime. He acknowledged the necessity of working
together to prevent and investigate cybercrimes, money laundering, and other transnational
financial offences.
“Nigeria and France have a long history of collaboration in crime prevention and investigation.
We have successfully worked together in asset tracing, and we are committed to strengthening
that relationship further. Given the borderless nature of financial and cybercrimes, international
cooperation is crucial in curbing these offenses.”
The EFCC’s boss drew attention to a recent breakthrough in dismantling an international
criminal syndicate operating across Europe and Asia, with plans to establish a foothold in
Nigeria. He disclosed that some of the syndicate’s victims included individuals in France,
emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration with international partners to prevent
such crimes from taking root.
“If we work together, we can significantly reduce the chances of these criminals finding safe
havens anywhere in the world. Our primary responsibility is to ensure that these international
syndicates do not succeed in perpetrating their crimes. This will help maintain global security,
prevent civil unrest, and curb related offenses such as arms trafficking and terrorism, which
are often linked to financial crimes.”
The EFCC chairman reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to working closely with the
French embassy and its security attaché in Nigeria. He also expressed gratitude about
the capacity development initiatives offered by France, emphasizing the importance of
technological advancements in modern crime-fighting efforts.
“We appreciate the opportunities for training and capacity building. Crime detection and
investigation in Nigeria differ significantly from Europe. While European law enforcement
can access digital records at the push of a button, our investigations require extensive
fieldwork. By combining our practical expertise with France’s advanced technological tools,
we can create a more effective crime fighting strategy”, he said.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-france-to-collaborate-on-asset-tracking-and-cybersecurity-training
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4 MAR 2025
Abuja Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters
Justice M.Y. Halilu of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court Maitama,
has convicted and sentenced two suspected internet fraudsters, Godwin Christopher
and Temitope Ature Mario to one year imprisonment each.
They were jailed on Friday, February 28, 2025 after pleading guilty to one-count
separate charges bordering on internet fraud.
Christopher’s charge reads, ‘That you Godwin Christopher sometime in 2024 at Abuja
within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court attempted to commit the offence of
cheating by personation when you created a fake Facebook account with the profile
name Annita Scott and pretended to be an American from Atlanta, Georgia which you
were not and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 95 and punishable under
Section 324 of the Penal Code Act, Laws of the Federation, 2004”
Mario’s charge reads, ‘That you Temitope Ature Mario sometime in 2024 at Abuja within
the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory attempted to cheat
by personation when you represented yourself on Facebook profile page as Karlee Jean,
a citizen of the United States of America which you know to be false and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 95 when you read in conjunction with Section
321 of the Penal Code Laws (Laws of the Federation, Abuja) 1900 and punishable under
Section 324 of the same law’.
They both pleaded guilty to their respective charges when they were read to them.
Based on their pleas, Prosecution counsel, S. N .Roberts prayed the court to convict
and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Halilu thereafter convicted and sentenced both Christopher and Mario to a
one year imprisonment or a fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) each. He
also ordered that their phones be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Justice Halilu sentenced both Godwin and Ature to a one year prison term or pay a
fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) each. He also ordered that their phone
be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The two convicts bagged their imprisonment when they were arrested for internet
fraud. They were prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
abuja-court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters
**********************************************
4 MAR 2025
EFCC Arrests Nine Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have
arrested nine suspected internet fraudsters in the Federal Capital Territory,
Abuja.
They were arrested on Tuesday, March 4 2025 at Sunnyville Estate in Lokogoma
and Open Heaven Estate in Dawaki areas of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
Items recovered from them include four high-end cars, laptop computers, iPads
and phones.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
efcc-arrests-nine-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
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4 MAR 2025
Chinese Working Group to Collaborate with EFCC in Tackling Cybercrime
Worried by the rising tide of Chinese involvement in financial crimes in Nigeria,
the Ambassador of People's Republic China to Nigeria, His Excellency, Yu Dunhai
has broached the possibility of collaboration between a Chinese working group with
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC in tackling cybercrime.
Dunhai mooted the proposal in Abuja on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 when he led a delegation
of Chinese Embassy officials on a visit to the Executive Chairman of EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede
at the Commission’s corporate headquarters.
“The Chinese government is ready to send out a working group to come here to Nigeria
to work with your law enforcement officers to have the evidence collection, the fraud
tracing, and to find evidence and bring those criminals to justice,” he said.
He explained that anti-corruption issues are always priorities both for China and Nigeria,
maintaining that law enforcement has been an integral part of bilateral relations between
the two countries. “We understand that over the past couple of months, the EFCC uncovered
quite some cybercrime and also telecom frauds which involved some Chinese. As Chinese
Ambassador, I feel very much regret for that. But as a country that has a big population,
there are always some bad apples. But what I can assure you is that we have zero tolerance
for this kind of crime. The Chinese government has always been committed to countering cyber
crime and telecom frauds”, he said.
Dunhai disclosed that every Chinese overseas has been instructed to abide by the rules
and regulations of their host countries by following all their procedures. Explaining
further, he stated that, “according to our intelligence and information we see that there
is a trend by criminals to move from other countries to Nigeria. That's why it resulted in
some of the arrests in the past few months. But I can assure you from the embassy side that
we would like to work with you. And this is also the attitude of the Chinese government”.
He condemned the involvement of his compatriots in criminalities in Nigeria but sued for the
respect of the rights of those arrested. “As the Chinese Ambassador, I would also request that
the legitimate right of the Chinese citizens, even if they committed a crime, should be well
protected and have been assured many times by your colleagues that their legitimate rights
are well protected. And I'm thankful for that”, he said.
In his response, Olukoyede expressed delight at the visit and the proposals, noting that
mutual respect and benefit have been the bedrock of Nigeria-China relationship. “The relationship
between China and Nigeria has been of mutual benefit and respect. We have so much to benefit
from each other. And it is my desire that we build on that existing relationship and strengthen
it. A number of times we have had cause to receive your police attache and your other officers
here in our office and believe we've been having a very good working relationship,” he said.
Olukoyede thanked Chinese authorities for their support to the EFCC and sued for heightening
of the relationship. “We're going to come up with a memorandum of understanding, law enforcement
to law enforcement, so that it will ease the process of exchange and intelligence. Information
and intelligence exchange will be good for both countries. I want to thank you for that. Also
the issue of capacity development which you have been supporting. I also thank you for the support.
And just like you said, more will be coming. We appreciate that. We can also transfer our knowledge
to them because there are things about our system that they don't know which we would need to put
them through in the interest of the two countries. Security is very key to economic development
and that's why both countries will do everything possible to ensure that we prevent crime from
happening,” he said.
In relation to the scores of Chinese undergoing EFCC’s criminal prosecution, Olukoyede assured
the delegation of the Commission’s tradition of adherence to global best practices and respect
for human dignity in the conduct of its affairs. “The investigation we carried out in Lagos
involved quite a number of Chinese with other nationals. We discovered that some of them didn't
come directly from China. They came from other South Asian countries. That was why I directed
on the day we carried out the arrest that we should write to your Embassy.
“Rest assured of due process. We follow the rule of law in whatever we do. As a matter of fact,
while we're preparing for prosecution, they were giving your people Chinese food. They were
eating Chinese food. That is to show you how we respect fundamental human rights and due process.
Rest assured that we'll continue to collaborate with you. We thank you for your support because
you were able to confirm some of their identities for us. If our citizens do anything wrong in
your country, we should be able to help you to fight that crime. I believe this is how countries
should work together,” he said.
The press release contains a photo:
chinese-working-group-to-collaborate-with-efcc-in-tackling-cybercrime
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3 MAR 2025
Two Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms in Maiduguri
Justice K Dagat of the Federal High Court, Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday,
March 3, 2025 convicted and sentenced Chimdi Godson Izuogu and Chidera Precious
Izuogu to various jail terms.
They were prosecuted by the Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on two separate count charges bordering on
internet-related offences, money laundering and impersonation to an aggregate
sum of N8,207,479.00( Eight Million, Two Hundred and Seven Thousand, Four
Hundred and Seventy Nine Naira)
The charges read:
“That you, Chimdi Godson Izuogu between 2022 and 2023 at Maiduguri, Borno State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did directly take possession of
the aggregate sum of N 4,622,571.00 only into your Kuda Microfinance Bank Limited,
account number 2024535085 and Opay with N389,852, account number 8141817415 account
name Chimdi Godson Izuogu totaling N5,012,422 being the value for the United States
of American Dollars and Euro denominated cash apps, pampay and gift cards that you
fraudulently received which you knew or reasonably ought to have known is proceeds
of your fraud or form part of proceeds of your unlawful act and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 18(2) (d) of the Money Laundering Prevention and
Prohibition Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act.”
“That you, Chidera Precious Izuogu between 2022 and 2023 at Maiduguri, Borno State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did directly take possession of the
aggregate sum of N 3,195,057.59(Three Million One Hundred and Ninety Five Thousand,
Five Seven Naira and Fifty Nine Kobo) only into your UBA account number 2152438098,
Chidera Precious Izuogu being the naira equivalent of $2,508.00 and €1,103,028.85(Euros),
the value for the United States of American Dollars and Euros denominated cash apps,
pampay and gift cards that you fraudulently received which you knew or reasonably ought
to have known is proceeds of your fraud or form part of proceeds of your unlawful act
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2) (d) of the Money Laundering
Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act.”
The defendants pleaded guilty to their separate charges when they were read to them,
upon which prosecution counsel, S.O Saka prayed the court to convict and sentence them
accordingly.
Justice Dagat thereafter convicted and sentenced them to four years imprisonment on
each count with the option of N100,000.00 fines as well.
He further ordered the forfeiture of iPhone 14 pro max, a blue Techno mobile phone,
HP laptop, and the sum of N2,000,000.00 ( Two Million Naira only) as well as N1, 455,057.59
( One Million, Four Hundred and Fifty Five Thousand, Fifty Seven Naira, Fifty Nine Kobo)
and iPhone 13 pro max.
Other items forfeited to the government include iPhone 11 pro max and the sum of $100(One
Hundred United States of American Dollars)
The convicts’ journey to the Correctional Centre began when they were arrested for
defrauding foreign nationals through fake social media handles. They were charged
to court and convicted.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-maiduguri
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3 MAR 2025
EFCC Arrests 21 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin City
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday, February 28, 2025 arrested 21 suspected internet
fraudsters at different locations within Benin City, Edo State.
The suspects were arrested based on credible intelligence on their alleged
involvement in internet- related fraud.
Items recovered from them include 13 exotic cars, laptops and phones
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-21-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
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2 MAR 2025
EFCC Arrests 11 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Niger
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Kaduna
Zonal Directorate, on Thursday, February 27, 2025 arrested 11 suspected
internet fraudsters.
?They were arrested in broad daylight at White Hotel, Chanchangi Local
Government Area in Niger state following credible intelligence about their
suspected involvement in fraudulent internet activities.
?Items recovered from them include two vehicles and 13 phones of different
brands.
The Commission's operatives carried out the arrest professionally with no
motive or tinge of abduction.
The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-11-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-niger
******************************************
27 FEB 2025
EFCC Arrests 19 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin City
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, February 27, 2025 arrested 19 suspected internet
fraudsters at different locations in Benin City, Edo State.
Their arrest followed credible intelligence linking them to fraudulent internet
activities. Items recovered from them include seven exotic cars, laptop computers
and phones.
They have made useful statements and will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-19-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
************************************************
26 FEB 2025
Organized Foreign Fraud Syndicates Establishing Cells in Nigerian Cities-
Olukoyede
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Mr. Ola Olukoyede has alerted Nigerians that organized foreign fraud syndicates
are establishing cells in Nigerian cities and recruiting young Nigerians into
serious organized cybercrimes, including cryptocurrency fraud.
He made the disclosure in Abuja on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 while receiving
participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course, EIMC 18 of the
National Institute for Security Studies, NISS, led by the Director of Studies,
Hyginus Ngele to the Commission. Olukoyede expressed surprise on how bandits
and insurgents are able to sustain their activities over the years, stressing
that the flow of small arms and light weapons across our borders and the involvement
of non-state actors in the illegal exploitation of minerals in parts of the country
all compound the threats in the security landscape.
“Another dimension that is not given attention is the discovery, recently, that
organized foreign fraud syndicates are establishing cells in Nigerian cities and
recruiting young Nigerians into serious organized cybercrimes, including cryptocurrency
fraud,” he said. Speaking further, he stated that by virtue of EFCC’s recent discovery
“we are beginning to see the likelihood, the propensity that a lot of these people are
into illegal importation of arms into the country using cryptocurrency as means of
payment. And this is an area that must interest all of us”
“In the special operations we carried out in Lagos recently, we arrested 194 foreigners
in the heart of Victoria Island. One hundred and ninety-four of them, Chinese, Filipinos,
Eastern Europeans, Tunisians and the like in one building at a time. You can imagine what
these guys are doing, 194 of them. Some of them don't even have valid visas and most of
the financial activities they carried out they did through cryptocurrency”
“Another thing that we discovered is that some of the foreigners we arrested were
already ex-convicts in their countries. Some of them have been convicted and escaped
from their countries and found safe haven in Africa, not only Nigeria. We discovered
that they are also developing cells in some other African countries by virtue of the
investigation we are carrying out,” he said.
The EFCC’s boss called for spirited efforts at both national and continental levels
to combat the menace of internet fraudsters, stressing that the money laundering and
national security dimension of the presence of foreign organized crime groups demand
close scrutiny. “All security, intelligence and law enforcement organisations in Nigeria
and indeed Africa, must close ranks in dealing with this challenge,” he said.
Olukoyede decried the fact that Nigeria, for nearly two decades, has been besieged
by all manners of security challenges ranging from insurgency, banditry, kidnapping
for ransom and farmer/herder clashes, which he partly blamed on activities of non-state
actors. Specifically, he noted that the role of non-state actors in stoking the embers
of security and corruption challenges has not been fully interrogated.
“At the level of the EFCC, we have always been suspicious of the activities of non-state
actors in the areas where we are challenged security-wise. In the Northeast for instance,
the activities of local and international NGOs have been under focus. This was a major
impetus for the decision to mandate their registration with SCUML, Special Control Unit
against Money Laundering, , a department in EFCC, and a clear directive to notify the
Commission on cash movements within the region,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, NISS Commandant, Joseph Obule Odama who spoke through Ngele praised
Olukoyede’s leadership of the EFCC for the Commission’s “remarkable achievements in combating
corruption, money laundering, and other financial crimes,” noting that the achievements “have
not only strengthened Nigeria's integrity but have also served as a model for other nations
in Africa and beyond.” He further noted that the EFCC, under Olukoyede, has been at the
forefront of investigating and prosecuting financial crimes, including those involving non
-state actors.
“Your Commission's exploratory activities have uncovered the intricate networks through
which some NGOs and other entities channel funds to support hostile non-state actors,
thereby fueling instability in various parts of the country and the African Continent.
“We recognize the critical role the EFCC plays in disrupting these networks and ensuring
accountability. In light of this, we are particularly interested in hearing your insights
on how your Commission navigates the complexities of investigating and prosecuting cases
involving non-state actors”
“We also seek your contributions on how Nigeria and other African nations can strengthen
legal and institutional frameworks to address the challenges posed by these actors while
promoting transparency and accountability in their operations”.
Members of the NISS EIMC 18, comprised 74 senior officers, drawn from Nigeria’s intelligence
community, the military, law enforcement agencies, including the EFCC, strategic government
ministries, and representatives from the federal and state governments and international
participants from Ghana, Somalia, Rwanda, and The Gambia. The theme for EIMC18 is "Non-state
Actors in Security Management: Issues, Challenges, and Prospects for Peace and Development
in Africa," which according to Ngele “was carefully selected in recognition of the growing
influence of non-state actors in shaping the security landscape across the continent.”
Part of the highlights of the visit featured an enlightenment and question and answers
session, moderated by the Director of EFCC’s Public Affairs Department, Commander of the
EFCC, CE Wilson Uwujaren. Director of SCUML, Commander of the EFCC, CE Daniel Isei,
Director Special Duties, Office of the Executive Chairman, CE Friday Ebelo and Director
Legal and Prosecution, CE Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, offered insights on what the EFCC has
done in strengthening the anti-corruption engagements through its diverse activities.
The press release contain photos:
organized-foreign-fraud-syndicates-establishing-cells-in-nigerian-cities-olukoyede
419 Coalition Comment: On 419 matters, we feel the assertion "that organized foreign fraud
syndicates are establishing cells in Nigerian cities" is quite overblown. In terms of 419
(Joint West African Fee Fraud) operations, we continue to assert the vast majority of 419ers
and members of 419 syndicates are Nigerian nationals, and that the home offices of most expatriate
419 cells worldwide remain in Nigeria. We have recently posted several commentaries on this issue
is this news section of late, simply scroll down to find and read them please. Bottom line for
us is that the foreigners 419ing in Nigeria are largely not Ogas, or members of foreign sydicates,
but are skilled workers imported by Local 419 syndicates to expand their targeted markets. Our
view is also that local 419 syndicates would never allow foreign 419 syndicates to function on
their "Turf" in Nigeria for very long. See our commentaries on these matters following other
recently posted articles on these issues, scroll down.
***********************************************
26 FEB 2025
Rain of Encomiums as EFCC Director, Mahmud Bello Bows Out of Service
The staff of Enugu Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC on Monday, February 24, 2025 heaped encomiums on the Zonal Director, Mahmud Shuaib
Bello, Commander of EFCC, as they bade him farewell in an elaborate sendoff party,
organized in his honour, having retired meritoriously from the service of the
Commission.
Speaking at the event, organized at the office premises in Enugu, Deputy Commander
of the EFCC, and the Directorate’s Head of Legal and Prosecution Department, DCE
Onjefu Obe, described Bello as epitome of gentility, noting that saying goodbye to
a leader who passionately served the nation without blemish was always difficult.
“Here we are with one of the best persons you can meet in the world, full of love
and leaving us at this moment. He is an epitome of gentility. He is a man who has
served the Commission for more than twenty years and has passionately served our
dear nation without blemish. In his short stay with us as Zonal Director, he made
tremendous achievements and we will greatly miss him,” he said.
The zone’s Head of Administration, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE I Yunusa
Aliyu, described Bello as a calm and firm leader, who has left the staff prepared
for the challenges ahead. “We have always known you for your leadership and guidance.
You are calm and firm and always desired to succeed. As you retire, rest assured that
you have left us well prepared for the challenges ahead,”he said.
Assistant Commander of the EFCC ACE II Mainforce Ekwu Adaka of the Legal Department
on his part stated that Bello provided a conducive environment for everyone to thrive
in the workplace, adding that he is an administrator par excellence. “Oga mentored me
in the practice of law. He sharpened my advocacy skills. He is a father-figure, who
provided a very calm and conducive environment for us to thrive and develop ourselves
and our intellectual capacity in the workplace. He is an administrator par excellence.”
Bello in his response appreciated the tremendous show of love and appreciation from
the staff of the directorate and encouraged the officers to continue to uphold the
integrity of the Commission.
"I wish you all the best. Let us continue to be friends. And let us also continue to
uphold the integrity of the EFCC," he said.
Prior to joining the EFCC, Bello worked with some private law firms. To qualify as an
EFCC operative, he enrolled in the Commission’s Executive Course 4 in Police Training
College.
The press release contains many photos:
rain-of-encomiums-as-efcc-director-mahmud-bello-bows-out-of-service
***********************************************
25 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns 16 Additional Chinese for Alleged Cyber-terrorism,
Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 arraigned additional 16 Chinese before
Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos
for fraud.
They are: Hu Hui (a.k.a A Bin), Liao Ri Xing (a.k.a. Li Jun), Li Qiang (a.k.a.
Yang Huan Huan), A Wen, Da Tou, Cheng Jian, Cong Bing, Fei Fan, Huxi Heng, Zheng
Wei (a. k. a. A Hong), Huang Zhi, Zhang Lei, Sun Zhi Peng, Huang Jin Hui, Wù Hao,
and Lu Qiang. They are among the 792-member cryptocurrency investment and romance
fraud suspects arrested by EFCC operatives on December 10, 2024, in Lagos, in a
sting operation tagged "Eagle Flush Operation".
The suspects were arraigned on separate charges, bordering on cybercrimes, cyber-
terrorism, possession of documents containing false pretence, advance fee fraud
and identity theft.
One of the charges against Qiang reads: “That you, Li Qiang (a.k.a Yang Huan Huan)
and Genting International Co. Ltd Sometime in December, 2024 at Lagos within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court cause to be accessed, computer system used
for the purpose of destabilizing and destroying the economy and social structure
of Nigeria and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section
18(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act 2015".
One of the charges against Heng reads: "That you, Hu Xi Heng and Genting International
Co. Ltd sometime in December, 2024 at Lagos within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court cause to be accessed, computer system used for the purpose of destabilizing and
destroying the economy and social structure of Nigeria and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 18(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention,
Etc) Act 2015."
They all pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to them, following
which prosecution counsel, Nnaemeka Omewa, asked the court for a trial date and for
the defendants to be remanded in a correctional facility.
Justice Osiagor adjourned the matter till June 23, 2025 for trial, and ordered that
they be remanded in a correctional facility.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arraigns-16-additional-chinese-for-alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition comment: EFCC needs to quit trying to pass the buck onto the Chinese
for being big-time 419 Ogas. The vast majority of 419ers (West African Advance Fee
Fraudsters) are Nigerian nationals, and the home offices of expatriate 419er cells
worldwide are generally in Nigeria. For an extended commentary on this issue, scroll
down to our 21 FEB 2025 News post "EFCC Arraigns 17 Chinese for Alleged Cyber-
terrorism, Internet Fraud in Lagos" below.
***************************************************
24 FEB 2025
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja Zonal
Directorate, on Monday, February 24, 2025 arrested 59 suspected internet fraudsters.
They were arrested at Abacha Road, Mararaba axis of Nasarawa state following credible
intelligence about their suspected involvement in fraudulent internet activities.
Items recovered from them include 73 phones of different brands.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-59-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja"
*************************************************
21 FEB 2025
Olukoyede is Anti-corruption Crusader of the Year 2024
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede
has been honoured as the Anti-corruption Crusader of the Year 2024.
The honour was bestowed on him on Saturday, February 15, 2024 by a leading Nigerian
news magazine, The Reporters Nigeria, at an impressive ceremony which held at A Class
Park and Events Centre, Maitama, Abuja.
Halima AbdulRauf who spoke on behalf of the organisers, said Olukoyede’s choice for
the award was informed by his “tireless efforts in combating financial crimes, promoting
accountability and setting ethical leadership benchmarks.”
Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, EFCC’s Director of Public Affairs who received the award on behalf
of Olukoyede, thanked the organisers for acknowledging the ground-breaking works being
done by the EFCC Chairman in sanitizing the economic space, restoring confidence in the
economy and fighting the scourge of internet fraud.
He said the honour will further motivate the EFCC, while also dedicating the award to
all the hardworking personnel of the Commission.
The press release contains a photo:
olukoyede-is-anti-corruption-crusader-of-the-year-2024
************************************************
21 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns 17 Chinese for Alleged Cyber-terrorism, Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Friday, February 21, 2025, arraigned 17 more Chinese and a company,
Genting International Co. Ltd, before Justice Musa Kakaki and Justice Daniel
Osiagor, both of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos for fraud.
They are: Mao Bu Yi, Li Xiang Long, Dai Li, Yu Hai Qing, Jia Yang, Jia Zhi,
Hao Tao Kun, Liu Chuang, Zhao Xiao Liang, Ziao Zi Cheng, Zhang San Feng, Li
Zhong Chan, Chen Gui Ping, Su Jan Fu, Su Zong Gen, Wang Jie, and Zeng Zerong.
The defendants are among the 792-member cryptocurrency investment and romance
fraud suspects arrested on December 10, 2024, in a sting operation tagged "Eagle
Flush Operation" by EFCC operatives.
They were arraigned on separate charges bordering on alleged cyber-terrorism,
cybercrime, possession of documents containing false pretence, and identity
theft.
While Jie and Zerong were arraigned before Justice Kakaki, the remaining 15 were
arraigned before Justice Osiagor.
The charge against Yi reads: “That you, Mao Bu Yi and Genting International
Co. Limited sometimes in December 2024 at Lagos within the jurisdiction of this
Honourabe Court, willfully caused to be accessed computer system for the purpose
of destabilizing and destroying the Economy and social structure of Nigeria and
thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 18 of the
Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc} Act, 2015 (as Amended, 2024)."
The charge against Jie reads: “That you, Wang Jie (a.k.a. Xu Zhong Xiang) and
Genting International Co. Limited, sometime between the 29th of November, 2024
and 10th of December, 2024 at No. 7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Ikoyi,
Lagos, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court of Nigeria willfully
caused to be accessed, computer systems which were organized to destabilized
the social and economic structure of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, when you
secretly procured and employed several Nigerian youths for identity theft and
other computer related fraud, and you thereby committed an offence, contrary to
and punishable under Section 18 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.)
Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2015 As amended)."
They all pleaded “not guilty” to the charges, following which prosecution counsel,
M.S. Owede, T.J. Banjo, A.C. Olowonihi, and N.C. Mutfwang asked the courts for trial
dates and for the defendants to be remanded in the appropriate correctional center.
While Justice Kakaki adjourned the matter till March 20, 2025 for trial, Justice
Osiagor adjourned till June 11, 2025 for trial. They were all ordered to be remanded
in the correctional centre.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-17-chinese-for-alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition comment: So, to recap all these "the Chinese are the True 419er Ogas stories"
of late: The EFCC has arrested 792 419ers of a large scale 419 syndicate in Lagos, about 200
of which were Chinese, operating from the offices of a company with a Chinese sounding name.
These Chinese "willfully caused to be accessed computer systems which were organized to
destabilized the social and economic structure of the Federal Republic of Nigeria" doing
this having "secretly procured and employed several Nigerian youths for identity theft and
other computer related fraud". So, there was this company, says the EFCC, with a Chinese
name, that nobody knows who owns or are the principals in, or where the monies it "made"
were sent, or to whom; who somehow managed to import a hundred Chinese who may or may
not have had visas, or sponsors, or any legal reason to be in Nigeria; who then managed
to somehow "secretly" hire "several" (actually 600 or so) naive Nigerian youths to engage
in 419 operations "for identity theft and other computer related fraud" who then "accessed
computer systems in order to destabilize the social and economic structure of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria" (we have rephrased this quote a bit).
So, says the EFCC, this latest thing is the fault of these criminal Chinese corrupting
Nigerians and attacking the Nigerian state. This operation could not have been set up
by Nigerian 419 Ogas bringing in the Chinese to use their language skills to target
potential 419 victims in China and other Asian countries, Nooooooo... if course not.
After all, what 419 Oga would be smart enough to want to expand in a big say into the
vast Chinese speaking Asian market? Apparently, the EFCC thinks the big Nigerian 419
Ogas and Sydnicates are too stupid to do this obvious thing. Well, the 419 Coalitiom
doesn't agree with that. Given the huge and continued success of Nigerian 419 operations
over the last 40 years or so, we have learned to give the 419 Ogas and Syndicates
high marks for their sophistication, vision, marketing, globalization, and other
skills. We suggest that the EFCC is selling the local talent short.
And, of course, the EFCC lstely has arrested a couple of hundred Chinese 419ers
nationally to date, and many thousands of Nigerian nationals, all of which which
is great - but it does not mention the kazillion unarrested Nigerian nationals who
have been 419ing away nationwide for the last 40 some years. These Chinese are
a tiny drop in the bucket of 419 crime.
It seems like tha EFCC has been pressing the view lately that 419 (West African Advance
Fee Fraud) is not really a Nigeria centered problem. They seem to be pushing the idea
that "See, it isn't us Nigerians, it is the Chinese who are running it! The Chinese
are the Real bad big time 419ers! They are the culprits! It's not us Nigerians! These
bad Chinese are corrupting our people! We are protecting the Nigerian people, Nation,
and the world from these rapacious Chinese who are corrupting them and destroying our
nation"!
Let 419 Coalition tell you... the big 419 syndicates are Never going to allow the
Chinese to muscle in on their operations, especially on their own turf. In the
unlikely event the Chinese were to attempt this, the local 419 Syndicates would
take out their operations one way or another... and who knows, maybe that is what
happened to Genting International. Maybe the local Ogas ratted out the competition.
Stranger things have happened in the World of 419.
While 419 Coalition is in favor of arresting 419ers of any nationality in any location,
we think the EFCC should quit trying to blame 419 on the Chinese. The vast majority of
419ers (West African Advance Fee Fraudsters) are, have always been, and continue to
be, Nigerian nationals, and the "home offices" of most 419 syndicates operating at home
and globally are in Nigeria. So, EFCC, arrest Your national 419ers, and any other
nationality 419ers you find on your turf, by all means! But quit trying to pass
the buck on 419 off onto the Chinese. Trying to pass the buck reflects badly on you,
and tarnishes the Good work that you Do. Respectfully, Coordinator, 419 Coalition
***********************************************
21 FEB 2025
EFCC Hands Over $132,362.43, N78,566,324.81 to Foreign Victims of Fraud
As a gesture of its commitment to tackling economic and financial crimes and
offering restitution to victims of fraudulent practices, the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has handed over a total sum $132,362.43
( One Hundred and Thirty Two, Three Hundred and Sixty Two United States Dollars,
Forty Three Cents), N78,566, 324. 81( Seventy Eight Million, Five Hundred and
Sixty Six Thousand, Three Hundred and Twenty Four Naira, Eighty one kobo) to
American, Spanish and Swiss victims of local fraudsters.
The handover, which was performed by the Executive Chairman of the Commission,
Mr. Ola Olukoyede took place on Friday, February 21, 2025 at the EFCC’s corporate
headquarters in Jabi, Abuja. A delighted Olukoyede observed that, “The event is
a demonstration of the commitment of the federal government of Nigeria and that
of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the fight against corruption and financial
crimes. A commitment to good governance, a commitment to stimulating the economy
and a commitment to prove to the entire world that Nigeria is not a safe haven
for financial crimes, a commitment to international cooperation and international
synergy in the fight against financial crimes, which you will agree with me, has
become a global crime.”
Speaking further, he said. “We are here to demonstrate that the federal government
of Nigeria, through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC is ready to
do everything possible to prevent financial crimes from being perpetrated in our
system. And when one has taken place, to investigate where assets are involved,
to trace, to recover and where necessary, prosecute.
“We don't just recover, we restitute the victims. We are here this morning to restitute
those who were victimized through the perpetration of economic and financial crimes. It
is important to know that once proceeds of crime are recovered, the most responsible thing
to do is to restitute the victims.
Handed over in addition to money are vehicles and real estate to citizens of Spain,
United States of America and Switzerland. Acting Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, Maria
Higon Velasco received the sum of $1,300 (One Thousand Three Hundred Dollars) and
evidence of N30 million already transferred to the Embassy of Spain in Nigeria for
onward transmission to a victim, Maria Del Rosario San Jose.
Florent Geel, Senior Political Officer, First Secretary, Embassy of Switzerland received
$100,011.43 (One Hundred Thousand, Eleven Dollars and Forty-three Cents on behalf of a
victim, Chantai Helene Lavancy, formerly known as Chantai Helene Maeder.
Charles Smith, Legal Attache, Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, Embassy of the United
States received the sum of $7,344 (Seven Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty-Four Dollars);
N7,963,483.35 (Seven Million, Nine Hundred and Sixty-three Thousand, Four Hundred and Eighty
-three Naira, Thirty-five Kobo), and Bitcoin cryptocurrency valued at $4,470.00 (Four Thousand,
Four Hundred and Seventy Dollars) on behalf of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for onward
transmission to a victim, Maria Jesus Brockell.
Also received by Smith was Mercedes Benz E550 4Matic Chasis No:WDDHF9AB6AA111112, Mercedes
Benz C450 AMG with Chasis No: WDD20J0641F282467, and one residential bungalow, located at
17/19 Seaman Street, Unguwar Maigero, Kaduna, Kaduna State on behalf of the United States
Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to the crime victim.
Additionally, Smith received the sum of $7,527 (Seven thousand, Five Hundred and Twenty-seven
Dollars) on behalf of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to the victim
of the crime, Michael Smith. He also received the sum of $11,710.00 (Eleven Thousand, Seven Hundred
and Ten Dollars) on behalf of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to the
crime victim, Cheryle Williams.
Lastly, Smith received the sum of N32,639,358.11 (Thirty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Thirty-
nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Fifty-eight Naira, Eleven Kobo) on behalf of the United States
Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to the crime victim, Marva Marrow.
In her remarks, her Excellency Velasco expressed gratitude, adding that “This is a sign of the
collaboration between Nigeria and Spain and we are very grateful for this collaboration.”
Smith said “As the FBI Legal Attache and the representative of the US government I want to
say we personally appreciate this. Many here may not understand what the impact this does to
the victims. This gives them complete closure and it allows them to feel whole again. So we
really do appreciate and we thank the EFCC. The EFCC is just not operating in Nigeria. The
EFCC is a major global contender and you should recognize that every time.”
On behalf of the government of Switzerland, Geel I thanked the government of Nigeria and EFCC
for the recovery and restitution.
“I thank the Nigerian government and especially the EFCC for the work they have done to combat
internet fraud and other financial crimes. Today's restitution of money obtained from a Swiss
citizen demonstrates the effectiveness but also integrity, professionalism, courage and collaboration
that occur between Nigeria and Switzerland. So, thank you for this exemplary collaboration and work
in making the digital world safer and better regulated. Switzerland will continue to work alongside
the Nigeria government in the service of the security of our respective people. So thank you again,”
he said.
The Permanent Secretary, Foreign Affairs Ministry, Umar Ahmed, thanked Olukoyede for his efforts
in the anti-corruption fight and conveyed the felicitation of the Honorable Minister for Foreign
Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar and the ministry to the EFCC and the Nigerian government.
According to him, “This is really an unprecedented development, and you cannot believe the impact
that this development will have on the mandate of the ministry, because it makes our work a whole
lot easier because it really enhances the credibility of Nigeria in the international scene. And
it will also go a long way in restoring investors’ confidence in the country.
And the ministry is very well with you in pursuing this mandate and want to thank you for this
initiative. It demonstrates the support of our President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the fight against
corruption and also in strengthening the EFCC in carrying out its mandate. All of us in the ministry
are really happy with this development and we'll keep on working with you and supporting you and
in carrying your mandate.”
The press release contains photos:
efcc-hands-over-132-362-43-n78-566-324-81-to-foreign-victims-of-fraud
419 Coalition comment: Now, this is the type of press release we are always very pleased
to see, and we hope to see many more like it. Kudos to the EFCC for repatriating these
419ed monies to the 419ed victims.
**************************************************
21 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns 18 more Chinese for Alleged Cyber-terrorism, Internet Fraud
in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on Thursday, February 20, 2025 arraigned additional 18 Chinese before Justice Daniel
Osiagor of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
They are: Huang Bo, Xiong Zhen, Lai Rui Feng, Deng Wei Qiang, Fu Min, Qin Xiao Yong,
Li Dong, Li De Wen, Luo Mao Yang, Zhao Xiao Hui, Du Ji Feng, Liu Hai Rong, Liu Ni Ni,
Liu Gang, Sun Qi, Zhang Jian, Peng Fa li and Huo Wen Jie.
They are among the 792-member cryptocurrency investment and romance fraud suspects
arrested on December 10, 2024, in Lagos, in a sting operation tagged "Eagle Flush
Operation" by EFCC operatives.
The suspects were arraigned on separate charges, bordering on cybercrimes, cyber-
terrorism, possession of documents containing false pretence and identity theft.
One of the charges reads: “That you Huang Bo, Xiong Zhen, Lai Rui Feng, Genting
International Co. Ltd and A. Dao (at large) sometime in December 2024, in Lagos,
within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court conspired with yourselves to commit
an offence to wit: cause to be accessed, computer systems for the purpose of destabilising
and destroying the economic and social structure of Nigeria and thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 27 (1) (b) and punishable under Section 18 (1) of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015."
They all pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to them, following
which prosecution counsel, Nnaemeka Omewa, asked the court for a trial date and for
the defendants to be remanded in the appropriate correctional center.
Justice Osiagor adjourned the matter till May 5, 2025 for trial, and ordered that they
be remanded at the correctional custodial center.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-18-more-chinese-for-alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition asks: Who are the principal owners of Genting International?
Where did the 419ed monies end up? Who vouched for the visas of the Chinese
workers? Did they even Have visas? How did they get into the country? Why
the emphasis on these Chinese 419ers when the great bulk of those arrested in
"Operation Eagle Flush" were in fact Nigerian nationals? Could it be that
the EFCC is attmpting to shift the blame for the Massive 419 operations
emanating from Nigeria onto someboday else, which is of course a non-starter?
Could it be that the Chinese criminal syndicates were actually trying to get
into the 419 business by setting up 419 operations in Nigeria rather than
in China itself? Could it be that local 419 sydicates were pissed off by
the Chinese poaching on their turf and ratted them out to the EFCC to get
rid of them? Could it be that these Chinese were recruited by existing
Nigerian 419 syndicates to diversify their 419ing staff and open new target
opportunities? Shouldn't the EFCC be saying about ALL 419ers that they
"cause to be accessed, computer systems for the purpose of destabilising
and destroying the economic and social structure of Nigeria" given that
their Massive number of Nigerian national 419ers do the same things as
these Chinese? There are many more questions.... how about it, EFCC?
*****************************************************
20 FEB 2025
Court Jails 11 Internet Fraudsters in Benin City
Justice W.I. Aziegbemhin of Edo State High Court, sitting in Benin City has
convicted and sentenced 11 (eleven) internet fraudsters to jail.
The convicts are: Izomor Samuel Efe, Nosakhare Bright, Emovon Destiny, Vincent
Arogbo, Osarentin Morgan Aduwa, Osagiede Destiny Oghosa, Nosakhare Ernest Theophilus,
Junior Emmanuel Efe, Osimen Princewill, Obamedo Clinton and David Iyobor.
They were prosecuted by the Benin Zonal Directorate of Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on separate one-count charges bordering on obtaining by false pretence,
advance fee fraud, retention of proceeds of crime and possession of fraudulent documents.
The charge against Efe reads: "That you Justice Samuel Efe (m) on or about the 8th of
February, 2025 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did have in your possession,
documents which you knew or ought to have known contained false pretence, thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 6 and 8 (b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related
Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act.”.
They all pleaded “guilty” to the charges when they were read to them, prompting prosecution
counsel, F.A Jirbo, I.K Agwai and Salihu Ahmed to ask the court to convict and sentence them
accordingly, while the defence counsel prayed the court to temper justice with mercy, stating
that they have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Aziegbemhin convicted and sentenced Izomor Efe and Bright to two years imprisonment
or to pay N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, each. Destiny and Arogbo also bagged
two years imprisonment or a fine of N400,000 (Four Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, each.
Aduwa, Oghosa, Theophilus, Junior Efe, Princewill, Clinton and Iyobor, were slammed with
three years imprisonment or to pay N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, each.
In addition to their sentences, all the convicts forfeited their phones, laptop computers
and sums of money seen in their bank accounts to the federal government and undertook in
writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The convicts’ journey to the correctional centre began with their arrest in a sting operation
by operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC following credible intelligence that
linked them to fraudulent internet activities.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-11-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
**********************************************
19 FEB 2025
Court Jails One for N10m Internet Fraud in Maiduguri
The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentence of one Abraham Ayomikun Ajibodu,
before Justice K. Dagat of the Federal High Court, sitting in Maiduguri, Borno
State for internet fraud.
The convict was arraigned on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, on a two -count charge
bordering on money laundering and impersonation to the tune of N10, 000,000.00.
Count one of the charges reads:
“That you Abraham Ayomikun Ajibodu between 2022 and 2023 at Maiduguri, Borno State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did directly take possession of
United States of America Dollars denominated cash app and gift cards worth about
$7,470.00(Seven Thousand Four Hundred and Seventy United States Dollars) which upon
conversion to naira amounted to an aggregate sum of N10, 000,000.00 (Ten Million
Naira) paid into your United Bank for Africa account No. 2114324883, Abraham A.
Ajibodu being the naira equivalent value for the cash app and gift cards you received
which you knew or reasonably ought to have known is proceed of unlawful act to wit:
your false representation to unsuspecting foreign nationals like; Donna Hughs, Loreitta,
Van Dough etc. using fake social media account like Facebook account with the name’
GEORGE STRAIT, a citizen of United States of America and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act,
2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act.”
Ajibodu, pleaded guilty to the charges when they were read to him and counsel to the
prosecution, Abdulmalik. D Aliyu prayed the court to convict and sentence him accordingly.
Justice Dagat thereafter convicted and sentenced him to four years imprisonment on counts
one and two with an option of N200,000.00 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine on each count.
The judge further ordered the forfeiture of the sum of $ 400,00( Four Hundred Dollars),
being value of cash App and gift cards benefited by the convict to be repatriated to the
victim as well as the forfeiture of iPhone 13 pro max, oraimo power bank and a used Honda
Accord 2003 model to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The convict’s journey to the Correctional Centre began when he was arrested by operatives
of the EFCC for making false representation to unsuspecting foreign nationals like; Donna
Hughs, Loreitta, Van Dough and others by using fake social media accounts like Facebook
account and others with the name’ GEORGE STRAIT and defrauded them in the process.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-one-for-n10m-internet-fraud-in-maiduguri
*******************************************
19 FEB 2025
Court Jails 30 Internet Fraudsters in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentence of 30 internet fraudsters before
Justices Ladiran Akintola, Adebisi Adetujoye and K.B. Olawoyin of the Oyo State
High Court, sitting in Ibadan.
The convicts are: Gbadega Ayomide, Ojo Oluwapelumi Oluwatomiwa, John Odey Ade,
Ezekiel Oluwatobi Damilare, Usman Olamilekan Hammed, Ogunjobi Oluwafemi Oluwadunsin,
Abdulrauf Taiwo Adekunmi, Ariyo Adejuwon Iyanu, Ahmed Ridwan Tajudeen, Ayomide Adedara,
Oyewale Opeyemi Kayode, Charles Nneji, Obaoye Testimony Isaac, Olisemeka Tochukwu
Anakweze, Ojo Opeyemi Makanjuola and Taiwo Kayode Goodness.
Others are: Bolarinwa Usman Gbolahan, Olawuni Gbenga Samuel, Segun Michael Balogun,
Charles Ifeoluwa Olayode, Sule Taofeek Rotimi, Sodade Oludotun Tolulope, Adeyemo
Waris Olabode, Akinnawonu Bidemi Raphel, Ayanda Samuel Oluwaseyi, Adeniyi Oluwasola
Oluwatosin, Olorunosebi Toyyib Alabi, Okorie Ifeanyi Favour, Akande Opeyemi Babatunde
and Siyanbola Oluwaseun Ibrahim.
They were prosecuted on separate one-count charges that bordered on impersonation,
obtaining by false pretence, retention of proceeds of crime and possession of fraudulent
documents.
The charge against Ibrahim reads: “That you, Siyanbola Oluwaseun Ibrahim “M” sometimes
in June, 2022 at Ibadan, Oyo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
with intent to defraud one Austin Frazier via Facebook messenger did falsely represent
yourself as Vivian Harding, a female from Chicago, United State of America, which
representation you knew to be false, thereby committed the offence of personation,
contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 30, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.”
All the defendants pleaded “guilty” to the charges when they read to them, prompting
prosecution counsel, Modupe Akinkoye, Oluwatoyin Owodunni, Chidi Okoli, Sanusi Galadanchi,
Lanre Suleiman, Mabas Mabur, Shamsuddeen Bashir, David Olubode and A.M. Aliyu to pray the
court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Akintola convicted and sentenced Oluwatosin to one year imprisonment or to
pay a fine N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira), Oluwaseyi to six months
imprisonment or to pay a fine of N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira), Raphael to
three months jail term or to pay a fine of N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira).
Justice Akintola also convicted and sentenced Favour, Olabode, Tolulope, Gbolahan,
Goodness, Makanjuola, Nneji and Isaac to six months community service each or to pay
N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, each.
Others convicted and sentenced by Justice Akintola are Ibrahim, Alabi and Babatunde who
bagged three months community service each or to pay N30, 000.00 (Thirty Thousand Naira)
fine, each.
Justice Olawoyin on her part convicted and slammed Ayomide, Oluwatomiwa, Ade, Balogun,
Olayode and Rotimi with one year imprisonment each or to pay a fine of N50, 000.00
(Fifty Thousand Naira), N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira), N100, 000.00 (One
Hundred Thousand Naira), N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira), N150, 000.00 (One
Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) and N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) respectively.
Also convicted and sentenced by Justice Olawoyin is Samuel who got six months jail term
or to pay a fine of N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira).
Justice Adetujoye convicted and sentenced Damilare, Hammed, Oluwadunsin, Adekunmi, Iyanu,
Kayode and Anakweze to two months community service each. Adedara bagged one month community
service. Their sentences are without an option of fine.
Though Justice Adetojoye convicted Tajudeen, he cautioned and discharged him.
Besides their sentences, all the convicts forfeited items recovered from them that include
money, phones and a Lexus 350 car with registration number: FKJ – 320 – HW recovered from
Anakweze to the federal government. In addition, Anakweze was ordered by the court to make
a restitution of N8, 731, 000.00 (Eight Million, Seven Hundred and Thirty-one Thousand Naira)
to his victim.
The press release contains photos of some of the 419ers:
court-jails-30-internet-fraudsters-in-ibadan
**********************************************
19 FEB 2025
Court Jails Internet Fraudster in Port Harcourt
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, Port Harcourt Zonal
Directorate has secured the conviction and sentence of one Chinedu Ukpai
Kalu, an internet fraudster before Justice P. I. Ajoku of the Federal
High Court, sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
He was prosecuted on a two-count charge, bordering on fraudulent impersonation,
and advance fee fraud.
One of the charges reads: “That you Chinedu Ukpai Kalu on or about the 9th
day of May, 2024 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State within the jurisdiction of
this Honorable Court with the intent to defraud, obtained a total sum of £1200
(One Thousand Two Hundred Pounds Only) from one Muhammad Zabhar from the UK
under the pretence that you are a legitimate miner, a pretence you knew to
be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1 (1) (a) of
the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offenses Act, 2006 and punishable
under section 1(3) of the said Act.
He pleaded “guilty” when charges were read to him, following which prosecution
counsel K .W. Chukwuma-Eneh urged the court to convict and sentence him accordingly.
Defence counsel, U.S Ejemera, however, prayed the court to temper justice with mercy,
stating that the defendant was a first time offender and has learned his lesson.
Justice Ajoku convicted and sentenced him to 12 months in prison or to pay N200,000.00
(Two Hundred Thousand Thousand Naira Only) fine, payable into the Consolidated Revenue
Account of the Federation.
In addition to his sentence, he forfeited his iPhone X, Samsung Galaxy A5, 9G and
Samsung Galaxy A14, 5G recovered from him upon arrest to the federal government. Also
forfeited to the federal government are the sums of £1,200 (One Thousand, Two Hundred
Pounds and $400 (Four Hundred Dollars), recovered from him during investigation.
Kalu’s journey to the correctional facility started when he was arrested by the
Commission in a sting operation in the Choba axis of Port Harcourt, following
intelligence report on the activities of some internet fraudsters in the area.
Investigation revealed that the convict operated fraudulent Facebook, TikTok,
Telegram and Instagram accounts which he used to swindle unsuspecting victims
of their money.
The press release contains a photo:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-in-port-harcourt
*********************************************
18 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns Four more Chinese for Alleged Cyber-terrorism,
Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, arraigned four Chinese before Justices
M. Kakaki and Ayokunle Faji, both of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi,
Lagos.
The quartet are part of the 792-member syndicate of alleged cryptocurrency
investment and romance fraud suspects arrested in Lagos on December 10, 2024
by officers of the EFCC in a surprise operation tagged “Eagle Flush Operation.”
While three of the defendants, Xia Guang Can, Li Xu Xin, and Zhang Xue Hui
were arraigned on separate one-charge charges before Justice Kakaki, Lu Yubo
was arraigned on a two-count charge before Justice Faji. The charges border
on internet fraud, cyber-terrorism, possession of documents containing false
pretence, advance fee fraud and identity theft.
The charge against Hui reads: "That you, ZHANG XUE HUI sometimes in December,
2024 at Lagos within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court cause to be
accessed computer system used for the purpose of destabilizing and destroying
the economy and social structure of Nigeria and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable) under Section 18(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, Etc) Act 2015".
One of Yubo’s charges reads: “That you, Lu Yubo and Genting International Co.
Limited, adult, on or about the 11th December, 2024 at No.7, Oyin Jolayemi Street,
Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Lagos, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court
of Nigeria, willfully caused to be accessed, a computer system which was organized
to seriously destabilize the economic and social structure of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria, by procuring and employing several Nigerian youths for identity theft
and other computer related fraud, and you thereby committed an offence, contrary
to and punishable under Section 18 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention,
etc.) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2015 (as amended)."
They all pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to them, following
which prosecution counsel, Fanen Anum and Ahmed Yerima asked the courts respectively
for a trial date and for the defendants to be remanded at a Correctional Centre,
while counsel for the defendants prayed for a short adjournment to file their bail
applications.
Justice Kakaki adjourned till March 18, 2025 for trial, and ordered that the three
defendants be remanded in a Correctional Centre, while Justice Faji adjourned till
March 31 and April 3, 2025 for trial, and ordered that Yubo be remanded in the Ikoyi
Correctional Centre.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-four-more-chinese-for-alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition question: Again, Who or what entity(ies) control GENTING INTERNATIONAL
CO. LIMITED? And, where did the stolen monies go to?
***********************************************
18 FEB 2025
EFCC Arrests 15 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 15 suspected internet fraudsters in
Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
They were arrested in Amax Apartment, Guzape, following credible intelligence
that linked them to fraudulent internet activities.
Items recovered from them include a Toyota Highlander with customized
registration number (BORNO AAA) and phones.
They have made useful statements and would be charged to court as soon as
investigations are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-15-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
************************************************
17 FEB 2025
Witness Narrates how Chinese Employer Lured her into Alleged Cyber-terrorism,
Internet Fraud in Lagos
The First Prosecution Witness, PW1, Jacob Lilian, in the trial of Ling Yang
(a.k.a Shoa Ming), a Chinese, and part of the alleged 792-member syndicate
of cryptocurrency investment and romance fraud suspects has narrated before
Justice D.I. Dipeolu of Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos how her
job search at Genting International Co. Limited ended in being lured into
dating scam by the defendant.
Yang alongside Genting International Co. Limited is being prosecuted by the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on a four-count charge, bordering
on cybercrime and advance fee fraud, having been arrested in Lagos by officers
of the Commission in a surprise operation tagged “Eagle Flush Operation” on
December 10, 2024.
One of the charges reads: "That you, LING YANG A.K.A. SHAO MING, sometime in
December 2024 in Lagos within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with
the intent to gain a financial advantage for your employer fraudulently
impersonated one Amity by holding yourself out as such, and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015." He pleaded guilty to all the charges,
prompting his trial.
Led in evidence by prosecution counsel, Hanatu U. KofarNaisa, the witness, a
Nigerian identified the defendant as one of the Chinese that work on the Seventh
Floor of the company's building.
"As at November 2024, I was in search of a job and so I joined a WhatsApp group
called job update, which was where I got to know about the job that stated customer
service and only an address written as No 7 Oyin Jolayemi Street, Lagos. On getting
there I was not asked to present any CV or documentations, and when I got in, I was
required to sit in front of a computer. I thought I was about to have an online test,
but rather I did a speed limit test that was set to be 30 and I got 28," she said.
She added that she was encouraged to improve her speed, and subsequently given a
job with the company.
"No credentials were required or asked for and I was not given any offer letter,"
she said.
According to her, the company provided accommodation for her on the Island and she
moved in.
She further testified that she was later given a script to read, adding that she was
told that was her job.
"On the script there was a name, Alani Thomas, and I was asked to read the script
further and to get familiar with any customer assigned to me and chat with them,"
she said.
Testifying further, she stated that Europeans were the main targets and that she
was usually introduced as Alani Thomas.
"The WhatsApp group is being monitored by the employers, and once names are exchanged,
and I start to get to know the customer, by the third day of chatting with the customer,
once they are at ease with me, I will be asked to stop chatting with the customer and
then the employers will take over the chatting," she said.
She disclosed that her monthly salary was N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand
Naira) and that the Nigerian employees had seat numbers and computers allocated to
them.
She disclosed that she wanted to resign from the job, but the company had a way of
caging them and monitoring their activities.
"We were always escorted by security officials from the office to the accommodation
and we were never allowed to leave the office premises. Before we start working for
the day, we have to submit our phones.
The EFCC arrest was a saving grace for me," she said.
Prosecution counsel applied for an adjournment to enable it to tender the computer
with the scripts in evidence.
Justice Dipeolu adjourned the case till April 11, 2025 for continuation of trial.
witness-narrates-how-chinese-employer-lured-her-into-alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition question: Again, Who or what entity(ies) control GENTING INTERNATIONAL
CO. LIMITED?
****************************************************************
14 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns 11 more Chinese for Alleged Cyber-terrorism, Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on Friday, February 14, 2025, arraigned 11 more Chinese and a company, Genting International
Co. Ltd, before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos
for fraud.
The defendants are: Li Niu, Xiao Qinyun, Fu Zheng Yang, Xiao Yi, Bei Bei Linde Jun, Li Hang,
Huan Livo, Wang Wei Tong Mo Ying, Gao Yang, Zebin Chen and Yuan Zhibin.
They are part of the 792-member syndicate of alleged cryptocurrency investment and romance
fraud suspects arrested in Lagos on December 10, 2024 by officers of the EFCC in a surprise
operation tagged “Eagle Flush Operation.”
The suspects were arraigned on separate charges bordering on cyber-terrorism, cybercrimes,
possession of documents containing false pretence, advance fee fraud and identity theft.
The charge against Jun reads: “That you, BEI BEI LINDE JUN, (Female), adult and GENTING
INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED sometime between the 28th of November, 2024 and 10th of December,
2024. at No. 7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Lagos, within the Jurisdiction
of the Federal High Court of Nigeria with intent to defraud, willfully caused to be accessed,
computer systems which were organized to destabilize the social and economic structure of
the Federal Republic of Nigeria, when you secretly procured and employed several Nigerian
youths for identity theft and other computer related fraud, and you thereby committed an
offence, contrary to and punishable under Section 18 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, Etc.,) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2015 (As amended)."
Niu’s charge reads: "That you, LI NIU sometimes in 2024 at Lagos within the jurisdiction
of this Honourabe Court, had in your possession documents where you represented yourself
as "LISA' and that you are a female from Singapore, a representation which you knew or ought
to have known is false and you thereby committed and offence contrary to Section 6 of the
Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under section
1 (3) of the same Act."
They all pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to them, following which
prosecution counsel, Ahmed Yerima, F.S. Mohammed, A.M. Dambuwq and N.C. Mutfwang asked the
court for a trial date and for the defendants to be remanded in a Correctional Centre.
Justice Aneke adjourned the matter till March 14 and 21, 2025 for trial, and ordered that
the defendants be remanded in the Ikoyi and Kirikiri Correctional Centres.
The press release contains photos:
-efcc-arraigns-11-more-chinese-for-alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition question: Again, Who or what entity(ies) control GENTING INTERNATIONAL
CO. LIMITED?
****************************************************
13 FEB 2025
Seven Convicts Forfeit Hotel, N230.3m, Others in Makurdi
Justice M.S.Abubakar of the Federal High Court, sitting in Makurdi, Benue State
has ordered the forfeiture to the federal government, the sum of N232,396,714.00
(Two Hundred and Thirty-two Million, Three Hundred and Ninety-six Thousand, Seven
Hundred and Fourteen Naira), a hotel as well as the sum of $4,977 (Four Thousand
Nine Hundred and Seventy-seven US Dollars) recovered from seven fraudsters.
The forfeiture followed the conviction and sentencing of the fraudsters, prosecuted
on separate one-count charges, bordering on criminal impersonation, money laundering,
cybercrime and obtaining by false pretence by the Makurdi Zonal Directorate of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The convicts are: Tamaraudeinyefa Shedrack Brakekebebe, Godday Conference Brakekebebe,
Terhemba Josiah Asagh, Nyiter Avalumun Elijah, Ahmed Alabi Akindele, Kennedy Torbem
Ayanger and Hwande Aondooungwa James.
The charge against Brakekebebe reads: “That you Tamaraudeinyefa Shedrack Brakebebe
"M" ( 24 years old) in Makurdi, Benue State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, did retain the sum of N64,762,169.00 ( Sixty Four Million, Seven Hundred and
Sixty Nine Naira) in your Access Bank Account Number 0106661087 and the sum of N102,750,246.00
( One Hundred and Two Million,Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand, Two Hundred and Forty Six
Naira) in your Zenith Bank Account number 2650121852, which you reasonably knew to be proceeds
of unlawful Act, to wit; Cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)
(d) of the Money Laundering ( prohibition and Prevention etc) Act 2022 and punishable under
Section 18(3)of the same Section.
That of Asagh reads: “That you Terhemba Josiah Asagh "M"( 27 years old) sometime between
2021 and 2025 in Makurdi, Benue State with intent to defraud did send electronic messages
via Facebook App with fake identity as an Asian soldier, working for United Nations in the
United State of America which reliance, unsuspecting foreigners were caused to suffer loss
of about $300,0000 ( Three Hundred Thousand USD, which you converted to your Kuda Bank Account
Number 2018650772 and use same in building a Century Crip Inn Hotel, Gboko and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22(2)(b)of the Cybercrime ( Prohibition and Prevention etc) Act
2015 and punishable under same Section of the Act.”
They all pleaded “guilty” to their charges when they were read to them, prompting the review
of their cases by prosecuting counsel M.Yusuf, A.S.Idris, A.Gazali K.T.Sunday and Imadifon
Igbinidu, who urged the court afterwards to convict and sentence them accordingly.
After listening to prosecution and defence counsel, Justice Abubakar convicted and sentenced
Tamaraudeinyefa Brakekebebe to one year imprisonment or to pay N500,000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand
Naira) fine. In addition, he forfeited the sum of N102,750,246.00 (One Hundred and Two Million,
Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand, Two Hundred and Forty Six Naira), found in his Zenith Bank
Account No: 2650121856 and the sum of N64,762,169.00 (Sixty Four Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty
Two Thousand, One Hundred and Sixty Nine Naira) to the federal government.
Godday Brakekebebe was convicted and sentenced to three years imprisonment or to pay N500,000.00
(Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he forfeited the sum of N56, 633,246 (Fifty-six
Million, Six Hundred and Thirty-three Thousand, Two Hundred and Forty-six Naira) found in his Zenith
Bank Account No: 4068151050 and another sum of N200,929.00 (Two Hundred Thousand, Nine Hundred and
Twenty-nine Naira ), found in his Access Bank account No: 1462517972 to the federal government.
Asagh was convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment or to pay N1,500,000,00 (One Million,
Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he forfeited his Century Crip Inn Hotel, situated
at No: 41 Adekaa Yaji Street, Gboko North LGA, Benue State and registered as plot 5352 in Gboko
Land Registry and a Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic with Chassis No: WDDHFBQAA121814 and Registration
No: ABJ 367 CY to the federal government.
Elijah bagged one year imprisonment or to pay N500,000.00 ( Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine.
In addition, he is to restitute the sum of N10million to his victim through the EFCC Recovery
Account and forfeit a Mercedes-Benz GLE with chassis No:4J6D5H876A44065 and Registration No ABJ
797 AL to the federal government.
Akindele was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment or to pay N100,000.00 ( One Hundred
Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he is to restitute the sum of N1,645,000.00 (One Million, Six
Hundred and Forty-five Thousand Naira) to his victim.
Ayanger was convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment or to pay N100,000.00( One Hundred
Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he is to restitute the sum of N500,000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand
Naira) to his victim, while James was convicted and sentenced to three years imprisonment or to pay
N500,000.00 ( Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he forfeited the sum of N8,050,124.00
(Eight Million and Fifty Thousand, One Hundred and Twenty-four Naira) found in his Zenith Bank Account
No: 4256815018 and as well as $4977 ( Four Thousand, Nine Hundred and Seventy-seven US Dollars) USD
in his wallet account to the federal government.
The road to their ill-fate began when operatives of the Special Task Force (STF) of the Makurdi Zonal
Directorate of the EFCC followed credible intelligence on their involvements in fraudulent criminal
activities and arrested them in their hideouts.
The press release contains photos:
seven-convicts-forfeit-hotel-n230-3m-others-in-makurdi
**************************************************
13 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns 16 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Enugu
The Enugu Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 arraigned 16 suspected internet fraudsters
before Justice Mohammed Garba Umar of the Federal High Court, sitting in Independence
Layout, Enugu for fraud.
The defendants are: Chidera Nehemiah, Chikamso Nwabuisi, Nnamekwe Jeremiah Chukwu,
Chiemerie Christian Nworie, Azubuike Akachukwu, Onah Chisom Promise, Onoja Anthony
Enemari, Uboegbu Chisom Emmanuel and Ediekemi Patrick Udokaebe.
Others are: David Ugaji Izuhukwu, Asomugha Favour Chibuike, Onuoha Marvelous Onyeani,
Chidera Godwin, Modozie Chukwudalu Sixtus, Ugwu Chibuzor Pedro and Obiora Favour Ebube.
While Chukwu, Akachukwu, Promise, Udokaebe, Chibuike, Godwin and Sixtus were arraigned
on separate two-count charges, the rest of the defendants were arraigned on separate
three-count charges, all bordering on fraudulent personation, obtaining by false pretence,
money laundering and possession of fraudulent documents.
Count three against Nwabuisi reads: “That you, Chikamso Nwabuisi, sometime in January,
2025 in Awka, Anambra State, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court of Nigeria,
did commit a felony to wit: using and taking possession of the sum of Five Thousand US
Dollars ($5,000.00), knowing same to be fund that forms part of proceeds of an unlawful
act and thereby committed an offence, contrary to Section 18 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering
(Prohibition) Act, 2022, as amended and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the same Act.”
Court three against Chukwu reads: “That you, Nnaemeka Jeremiah Chukwu sometime in January
2025, at Awka, Anambra State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court committed
a felony to wit: using and taking possession of the sum of $5000.00, equivalent of N7, 679, 600
(Seven Million, Six Hundred and Seventy-nine Thousand, Six Hundred Naira) knowing same to be
funds that form parts of the proceeds of an unlawful act and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 18 (2) (D) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act,
2022 and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the same Act”.
They all pleaded “not guilty” when the charges were separately read to them. In view of
their plea, prosecution counsel, Michael Ikechukwu Ani, prayed the court for a trial date
and for the defendants to be remanded in Enugu State Correctional Centre, while
defence counsel, Wisdom Ogbonna, E. J. Nwatarali, B. C. Okeke, O. E. Otakagu, D. O. Onyeji,
M. I. Odo and Segun Oyesanya informed the court of pending bail applications of the defendants
before the court. Prosecution counsel opposed the bail applications on the ground that they
were not due for hearing having been informed at a very short notice and needed time to file
counter-affidavits.
After listening to both sides, Justice Umar adjourned the matter involving Nehemiah, Nwabuisi,
Chukwu, Nworie and Onyeamari till February 14, 2025 for the hearing of their bail applications,
while those of Akachukwu, Promise, Emmanuel, Udoakebe, Izuchukwu, Sixtus and Ebube were adjourned
till February 21, 2025 for hearing of the bail applications. The rest were adjourned till March
7, 2025 for the same purpose. He ordered that the defendants be remanded in the Enugu State
Correctional Centre.
The defendants were among 37 suspected internet fraudsters arrested on Friday, January 17,
2025 in a sting operation at Dr. J. O. Ukwutinife Close, Commissioners Quarters, Ifite, Awka,
Anambra State, following actionable intelligence linking them to internet criminal activities.
Investigations revealed that the defendants specialized in forging documents, impersonating
foreign nationals and using fake social media accounts to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The press release contains photos of the suspects:
efcc-arraigns-16-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-enugu
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11 FEB 2025
Court Jails Internet Fraudster in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC has secured the conviction and sentencing of one Chika Stanley Okoh for
internet fraud, before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court,
sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
He was arraigned in December 2024 on a one-count charge bordering on cybercrime.
The charge reads: “That you Chika Stanley Okoh sometimes in 2024, in Lagos,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently held out yourself
on facebook account @Zachary Levi as Zachary Levi, a male American actor, with
intention to gain advantage for yourself and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 22(3) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition
etc.) Act, 2015."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to him, following which
prosecution counsel, B.I. Oluseyi, invited an investigative officer of the EFCC,
Damilare Adeosun to give a review of the facts of the case.
Adeosun told the court that the EFCC sometime in November 2024 received credible
intelligence on the activities of internet fraudsters around the Lekki axis of Lagos
and that "Acting on the intelligence, a sting operation was conducted at Lekki County
Estate, Lagos State, where Okoh was arrested alongside several others," and was taken
to EFCC office where he volunteered his statement.
"The defendant misrepresented himself to be a white man from the United States
with the name Jonathan. The defendant also confessed that he does middle-man fraud
by facilitating proceeds of fraud for internet fraudsters. And he gets a certain
percentage from every transaction being facilitated. The defendant confessed to
have benefitted the sum of N2 million, which he used to purchase an iPhone 14 Pro
Max. The device was recovered from him upon his arrest. The phone was examined by
the forensic laboratory department and the forensic analysis revealed fraudulent
documents," he said.
Adeosun added that in the course of the investigations, Okoh raised a United Bank
for Africa (UBA) manager's cheque of N1 million as restitution.
The prosecution counsel tendered in evidence, Okoh’s confessional statement, the
device recovered from him, findings from the investigation and the manager's cheque
with no objection from the defence counsel, Peter Taiwo.
In his judgment, Justice Aneke held that the prosecution proved its case beyond
reasonable doubt and pronounced Okoh guilty as charged.
He was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment or to pay a fine of N1,000,000 (One
Million Naira Only), to be paid into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the
Federation. In addition, he is to serve 100 hours of community service.
The press release contains a photo:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-in-lagos
********************************************
11 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns 16 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Enugu
The Enugu Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC has arraigned 16 (sixteen) suspected internet fraudsters before Justice
Folashade O. Giwa-Ogunbanjo of the Federal High Court, sitting in Independence
Layout, Enugu State.
The defendants are: Ibemere Gerald Ifechukwu, Ngwu Chidozie Henry, Onwugbolu
Charles, Okeke Emmanuel Ebubechukwu, Ikechukwu Augustine Ibeanu, Samuel Obi
Chidera, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel Chinsed and Onoja Sampson Kingsley.
Others are: Chukwudi Francis Chinenye, Nwodo Nelson Obinna, Muolukwu Ikenna
Anthony, Ebuka Peter Ejiofor, Okonkwo Nonso Chijioke, Ngwu Chidozie Sylvester,
Duru Christopher and Seth Hyacinth Chidera.
While Emmanuel, Ebubechukwu, Henry, Chidera, Christopher, Francis and Charles
were arraigned on separate two-count charges, the rest of the defendants were
arraigned on separate three-count charges, all bordering on fraudulent impersonation,
possession of fraudulent documents and money laundering.
Count three against Chidera reads: “That you, Samuel Obi Chidera, sometime in
January, 2025, in Awka, Anambra State, within the jurisdiction of the Federal
High Court of Nigeria, did commit a felony to wit: Using and taking possession
of the sum of Three Thousand United States Dollars ($3,000), knowing same to be
fund that forms part of proceeds of an unlawful act and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 18 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition)
Act, 2022 as amended and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the same Act.”
Count three against Chijioke reads: “That you, Okonkwo Nonso Chijioke, sometime
in January, 2025, in Awka, Anambra State, within the jurisdiction of the Federal
High Court of Nigeria, did commit a felony to wit: Using and taking possession
of the sum of Five Hundred United States Dollars ($500), knowing same to be fund
that forms part of proceeds of an unlawful act and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 18 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2022 as
amended and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the same Act.”
They pleaded “not guilty” when the charges were separately read to them, following
which prosecution counsel, Michael Ikechukwu Ani prayed the court for a trial date
and for the defendants to be remanded in Enugu State Correctional Centre, while
defence counsel, J. O. Ezeh, D. O. Orji, Lizzy Otakagu, E. J. Nwatarali, Michael
Odom and Wisdom Ogbonna made bail applications for the defendants before the court,
which were opposed by prosecution counsel on the ground that he was just served the
applications and needed time to study them and file counter affidavits.
After listening to both sides, Justice Giwa-Ogunbanjo adjourned the matters till
February 17, 2025 for hearing of bail applications and ordered that the defendants
be remanded in the Enugu State Correctional Centre.
The defendants were arrested on Friday, January 17, 2025 in a sting operation at
Dr. J. O Ukwutinife Close, Commissioners Quarters, Ifite, Awka, Anambra State,
following actionable intelligence linking them to online criminal activities.
Investigations revealed that while some of the defendants specialized in impersonating
foreign nationals and defrauding their victims using fake social media accounts, others
specialized on forging documents which they use in defrauding unsuspecting victims.
The press release contains a photo of each of the suspects:
efcc-arraigns-16-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-enugu
************************************************
8 FEB 2025
Alleged Cyber Terrorism, Internet Fraud: EFCC Witness Reveals How
He Was Instructed to Disguise As Female to gain Clients’ Trust
A First Prosecution Witness, PW1, in the trial of one Xiao Hong Will, a Chinese,
over an alleged cyber terrorism and internet fraud , on Friday, February 7, 2025,
told Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos how
he was instructed by his employers to present himself as a female to gain clients’
trust.
The witness, Rowland Turaki, a cyber security student, said he was one of the
employees of the Chinese standing trial for alleged cyber terrorism and internet
fraud.
Hong Will is a member of the syndicate of 792 alleged cryptocurrency investment
and romance fraud suspects arrested on December 19, 2024 in Lagos during a surprise
operation tagged “Eagle Flush Operation” by operatives of the EFCC.
He was subsequently arraigned alongside Genting International Company Limited on
January 31, 2025 on a three-count charge bordering on an alleged case of cybercrimes,
cyber-terrorism, possession of documents containing false pretence and identity theft,
among others.
One of the counts reads: “XIAO HONG WILL and GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO.
LIMITED, on or about the 18th of December 2024 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction
of this Honorable Court, willfully caused to be accessed, computer systems organised
to seriously destabilise the constitutional structure of Nigeria (which prohibits and
prevents cyber and related crimes) when you procured/employed Nigerian youths for
identity theft and to hold themselves out as persons of foreign nationality, with
the intent to gain financial advantage for yourselves and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to and punishable under Section 18 and 27 of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015 (As Amended, 2024).”
He pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to him.
At Friday’s proceedings, prosecution counsel, Bilkisu Buhari, informed the court
that the prosecution had its witnesses in court and was ready to proceed with trial.
Counsel to the defendant, however, B.A. Omateno told the court that the case was
quite tedious and that she might not be able to proceed with the cross-examination.
In his ruling, Justice Dipeolu held that the defence counsel’s submission was not
strong enough to discontinue the proceedings.
Consequently, Turaki, led by the prosecution counsel, began his testimony, saying,
“I met him at the office, where we work. He is one of our employers. Sometime in mid-
November, I was on Jiji.ng looking for a laptop for my cybersecurity studies, so I
saw an advert of a job opening for a Customer Service representative role at a Company
and the pay was 250k. I clicked on the ad and I was directed to a page with a WhatsApp
number, which I was asked to message. I messaged the number and I was added to the group.
“On the group, we were given an address and time to come in for the interview. I went
to the address at 7, Oyin Jolayemi in Victoria Island, Lagos for the interview. I was
tested for my typing skills and not for my computer proficiency skills. The test was
to beat a 30-word mark in one minute; and if that’s done, you are hired.
“I expected follow-up questions, but there was none. I was told to resume the next day
and I was informed of the rules and regulations of the company. I was also told of the
salary structure as well as accommodation and transportation arrangement. I went back
home and packed my stuff to resume at work the next day. “
In his further testimony, he said: “On getting to work, I was given a script and some
information needed as a guideline for my role in the company. My employers told me I
had to memorise all that I was given as a guideline for my new role. For the next three
days, I was made to study the script, which I will use to speak to clients.
“I was given a chat template; a set of instructions containing conversation between
Genting International Company Ltd. and a client. The chat was basically befriending
the client and gaining the client’s trust. A roadmap of how the chat will go and what
to say.
“I was to present myself as a woman to gain the client's trust. I was told not to
deviate from the template and adhere strictly to it. After three days of training,
they provided me with a desktop computer. We were given numbers to contact. We had
a time duration of five days to gain the client's trust, using the template provided.
I started chatting with multiple people, mostly men from European countries. I spent
about three weeks at the company. I had not gotten the company the number of clients
required and I was pressured for it. We were given deadlines and threats of sacking
without pay and there were fines. Because of this, I decided to leave the company
and when I told my superiors that I wanted to resign, a memo was passed around that
if you want to leave you have to give 15 days notice; otherwise, you will leave
without getting a dime. “
He also told the court that the company provided them with a model, whose job was
to provide them with pictures and videos, so that if they needed to do video calls
with the clients, it would be believable.
According to him , “The name of the model assigned to me is Amity Smith. The job
of the model was to gain complete trust of the client. Once this has been done,
and trust gained, my employers will send a message on the telegram group and tell
us to hand off and they take over from us. We stop chatting with the client and
move on to the next. Our supervisors are Chinese. I received payment for the
duration of my stay, via a bank transfer.
“My employer had armed police presence in the work and accommodation premises. Based
on the pressure from my employers, I didn’t think it was wise to flee given the high
level of security presence at the premises and I wanted to get paid.
“I wanted to get medication at a time, but the Chinese people told the security men
not to let us go.
“When they saw that we were creating a scene, they told the security men to forcefully
send us back. We were mostly youths of age 20 to 30. They threatened us and it contributed
to my decision to leave. Unfortunately, the EFCC arrested us before I could do that.”
The case was adjourned till March 18, 2025 for continuation of trial.
alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-efcc-witness-reveals-how-he-was-instructed-to-disguise-as-female-to-gain-clients-trust
419 Coalition questions: Again, 419 Coalition question: Who or what entity(ies) control
GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED? Where did the company's capital investment come from?
Where did the "profits" go? Inquiring minds want to know these things....
*******************************************************************
8 FEB 2025
Olukoyede Confers Posthumous Award of Bravery on Slain Officer
Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC,
Mr. Ola Olukoyede has conferred a Posthumous Award of Bravery on a slain
officer of the Commission, Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASE
II. Aminu Harisu Sahabi.
He disclosed this in Sokoto on Friday, February 7, 2025 when he paid a
condolence visit to the family of the late officer at the Gawon Nama area
of Sokoto metropolis, Sokoto State.
Sahabi was killed in cold blood in Awka, Anambra State on January 17, 2025
while on an official assignment to apprehend suspected internet fraudsters.
Accompanied by the Director, Finance and Accounts of the Commission, Commander
of the EFCC, CE Ahmed Pate, Ag. Director Sokoto Zonal Directorate, DCE Nwanneka
Nwokike and management staff of the EFCC Sokoto zonal Directorate, Olukoyede
consoled the bereaved family assuring that the Commission shares in their pains.
"As a Commission, we share in the pains and grief of the loss, but we cannot
question the time that the Lord calls us home. The late Aminu was a gallant
officer full of promise and in the services of his fatherland when he met with
the tragic incident. Indeed, Allah gives and Allah takes".
He further said "I am personally here to assure you that his sacrifice will never
be forgotten nor will those accused of the heinous act of his murder be allowed
to go free. They must and they will face the full wrath of the law".
"There is nothing on earth that can replace the loss of a loved one but let us
be consoled that Allah's timing cannot be questioned and continue to pray for
the repose of his soul", he added.
The EFCC boss then conferred a Posthumous Award for Bravery to the late officer
and a Condolence Letter on behalf of the EFCC and the Federal Government of
Nigeria to the family.
Continuing, the EFCC’s boss stressed that, "going forward, I want to assure you
that the family will not be forgotten as I will make time to visit intermittently
because for us in the EFCC, we are a family. We have finished processing the
benefits of the late officer and will be released to the next-of-kin immediately".
Responding on behalf of the late officer’s family, Justice Mohammed Lawal Shuaibu
JCA, thanked the Executive Chairman and his team for the visit. He commended the
Commission for its intervention in conveying the late officer’s corpse home for
burial.
His words "I was literally on the phone with the Chairman consecutively after the
incident and we also saw the delegation of the EFCC during the burial of our son
led by the Secretary to the Commission".
He added "As a family, we also express our gratitude to the family for naming a
building at the EFCC Academy, Abuja after our son to immortalise his sacrifice".
Upon arrival at the EFCC’s Sokoto Zonal Directorate, Olukoyede inspected a guard
of honour and held meetings with officers of the Commission.
The press release contains photos:
olukoyede-confers-posthumous-award-of-bravery-on-slain-officer
************************************
6 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns Additional Nine Chinese for Alleged Cyber-Terrorism, Internet Fraud
in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on Thursday, February 6, 2025, arraigned nine Chinese and a company, Genting International
Co. Ltd., before Justice C.J. Aneke of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The defendants are Su Dong Fu, Zheng Xian Tao, Wang Shi Long, Pan Cai Qi, Ting Liao, Fan
Jia, Feng Li Cani, Lu Yong Yao and Yang Chen Cheng
They are members of the syndicate of 792 alleged crypto currency investment and romance
fraud suspects arrested on December 10, 2024 in Lagos during a surprise operation tagged
“Eagle Flush Operation” by operatives of the EFCC.
The suspects were arraigned on separate charges bordering on alleged cybercrimes, cyber-
terrorism, possession of documents containing false pretences and identity theft, among
others.
One of the counts reads: “That you, ZENG XIAN TAO (AKA A TAO AND ZHOU TAO) AND GENTING
INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED, sometime in December 2024 at Lagos, Nigeria within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, willfully caused to be accessed, computer systems used for the purpose
of destabilizing and destroying the economy and social structure of Nigeria and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 18 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015 (as Amended, 2024) and Section 2(3) of the Terrorism (Prevention and
Prohibition) Act, 2022.”
They all pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, M.K. Bashir, prayed the court for trial dates
and for the defendants to be remanded in the correctional centre.
Justice Aneke adjourned the matter till February 21, and March 7, 2025, for trial and also
remanded the defendants at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arraigns-additional-nine-chinese-for-alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition question: Who or what entity(ies) control GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED?
*****************************************************
4 FEB 2025
Again, EFCC Arraigns 11 Chinese for Alleged Cyber-Terrorism, Internet Fraud
in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, arraigned 11 Chinese and a company, Genting International
Co. Ltd., before Justice C.J. Aneke of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The defendants are: Liu Ke Fan, Huang Hai Tao, Zhang Kian Feng, Wua Wang and Xiao Xin.
Others are: Wang Hong Lin, Wu Yong An (a.k.a Zenga Niu), Chen Yuan (a.k.a Xiao Doa),
Chen Dong Dong (a.k.a Cun Zhao) Weng Mao Rong, (a.k.a A Xiang and Wang) and Xiong Wei
(a.k.a Xiao Bai).
They are members of the syndicate of 792 alleged cryptocurrency investment and romance
fraud suspects arrested on December 10 , 2024 in Lagos during a surprise operation tagged
“Eagle Flush Operation” by operatives of the EFCC.
The suspects were arraigned on separate charges bordering on alleged cybercrimes, cyber-
terrorism, possession of documents containing false pretence and identity theft, among
others.
One of the counts reads: “That you, LUI KE FAN (AKA LINA, LIU CHEN), HUANG HAI TAO, ZHANG
JIAN FENG, WU A WANG and XIAO XIN, sometime in December 2024 at Lagos, Nigeria, within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable court, willfully caused to be accessed, computer systems
used for the purpose of destabilizing and destroying the economy and social structure of
Nigeria and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section l8
of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act. 2015 (as Amended, 2024) and Section
2 (3) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022".
Another count reads : "That you, LUI KE FAN (AKA LINA, LIU CHEN), sometime in December
2024 at Lagos, Nigeria, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to
gain advantage for yourself, and members of your criminal syndicate group, specialized in
romance scam, crypto currency fraud, cyber terrorism amongst others, domiciled at No. 7,
Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria did fraudulently impersonate a 28-
year-old "Lina", from the United States of America living in Germany, by holding yourself
out as such to unsuspecting victims via a fraudulent profile on your company assigned
Maya desktop computer and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2) (b)
and punishable under Section 22 (2)(iv) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc
Act 2015".
Another count reads: "That you, WANG GONG LIN (AKA WANG JING LIN), sometime in January
2025 at Lagos, Nigería , within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, willfully gave
false information to officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in the course
of investigation when you were being questioned for being part of a criminal syndicate group,
specialized in romance scam, crypto currency fraud, cyber terrorism amongst others; and in
order to mislead them, you falsely represented your name as WANG JING LIN and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 39(2) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
(Establishment) Act, 2004 and punishable under Section 39(2)(b) of the same Act.”
They all pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to them.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, M.K. Bashir, prayed the court for trial
dates and for the defendants to be remanded in the correctional centre.
Justice Aneke adjourned the matter till February 21, and March 7, 2025 for trial and
remanded the defendants at the Ikoyi correctional centres.
The press release contains photos:
again-efcc-arraigns-11-chinese-for-alleged-cyber-terrorism-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalltion question: Who or what entity(ies) control GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED?
*******************************************************
3 FEB 2025
Court Orders Interim Forfeiture of Syndicate’s $222,729.86 Digital Wallet Assets
Justice A. Owoeye of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Monday, February
3, 2025, ordered the interim forfeiture of digital wallet assets valued at $222,729.86
to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The digital wallet assets were recovered from an alleved syndicate of 792 cryptocurrency
investment and romance fraudsters who were arrested on December 10, 2024 by operatives
of the the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, during a surprise operation
at 7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The Judge gave the order, following an ex parte application filed and moved by the EFCC
through its lawyer, Zeenat Atiku, pursuant to Section 44 (2) (b) of the 1999 Constitution
and Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act 2006.
Moving the application for interim forfeiture of the recovered digital wallet assets,
Atiku argued that the Commission had received intelligence about a large-scale fraud
involving foreign nationals operating in Lagos.
According to her, the syndicate financed its operations through a company, Genting
International Co. Limited (GICL).
Atiku further submitted that the digital wallet assets were “reasonably suspected to be
proceeds of an unlawful activity.”
After listening to the EFCC counsel, Justice Owoeye ordered the interim forfeiture of the
digital asset wallets .
The Judge also directed the EFCC to publish the order in a national newspaper to allow
anyone with an interest in the digital wallet assets to appear before the court within
14 days to show cause why it should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.
The court adjourned the matter till March 7, 2025 for a "compliance report".
court-orders-interim-forfeiture-of-syndicates-222-729-86-digital-wallet-assets
419 Coalition question: Who or what entity(ies) control GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED?
*******************************************************
3 FEB 2025
EFCC Arraigns 29 Chinese, 10 Filipinos, Three Others for Alleged Internet Fraud
in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on Monday, February 3, 2025, arraigned 29 Chinese, 10 Filipinos, one Malaysian, one
Indonesian and one Pakistani before separate Federal High Courts sitting in Ikoyi,
Lagos.
They were arraigned alongside a company, Genting International Co. Ltd., before
Justices Ayokunle Faji ; D.I. Dipeolu; Alexander Owoeye and C.J. Aneke, respectively.
The suspects are members of the syndicate of 792 alleged cryptocurrency investment
and romance fraud suspects arrested on December 19, 2024, in Lagos during a surprise
operation tagged “Eagle Flush Operation” by operatives of the EFCC.
They were arraigned on separate charges bordering on alleged cybercrimes, cyber-terrorism,
impersonation, possession of documents containing false pretence and identity theft, among
others.
The defendants are: Zhang Hua Zhai; Chen Xin; Li Zhen Peng; Guo Long Long ; Ren Jia Wen;
Zhang Jian; Zhao Ying Bin; Yu Zi, (a.k.a.Wei Xue Huan); Zhang Yang; Wang Zhi Chenge; Cherry
De Leon (a.k.a. Yeah De Leon); Khurram Shanzad; Fernand Fu Fang (a.k.a. Kim); Tan Soon Kar;
Rex Jose Dilag (a.k.a. Madison); Jamal Polea; Kamilu Jayne Gongzalez (a.k.a Jam Galanza);
Hannah Jaramillo (a.k.a Max Deleon); Danica Manulit (a.k.a. Dan Ruiz); Vera Dela Cris (a.k.a
Nina Vera Gonzal); Joey Gracia; Beverlyn Gumayo Casino (a.k.a. Veb Sumayo) and Tricia Jenylyn
Castro (a.k.a. T. J. Castrol).
Others are: An Hongxu; Shitou Shizilong; Pan Jiong; Wanq Jia Qi; Huang Xiao Liang; Guo Giang;
Wen Zong Xu; Zhon Kun Li; Huang Ren Jian; Li Jin; Deng Wen Qiang; Lu Yi Liang; Pan Cai Yu;
Peng Li Jain (a.k.a. Han Li Jaun); He Kun; Zhao Jin Rong; Lin Hao Bo; Chen Fusheng and Xiang
Bing.
One of the counts reads: “That you, ZHANG HUA ZHAI and GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED,
on or about the 18th of December 2024 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable
Court, willfully caused to be accessed, computer systems organised to seriously destabilise
the constitutional structure of Nigeria (which prohibits and prevents cyber and related
crimes) when you procured/employed Nigerian youths for identity theft and to hold themselves
out as persons of foreign nationality, with the intent to gain financial advantage for yourselves
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 18 and 27 of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015 (As Amended, 2024).”
Another count reads: “That you, VIERA DELA CRUZ (A.K.A NINA VIERA GONZAL) & GENTING INTERNATIONAL
CO. LTD., sometime in December 2024, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court,
willfully caused to be accessed, computer systems organized to seriously destabilize the constitutional
structure of Nigeria (which prohibits and prevents cyber related cries) when you procured/employed
Nigerian youths for identity theft and to hold themselves out as persons of foreign nationality,
with the intent to gain a financial advantage for yourselves and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 18
of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015 (As amended 2024)".
Another count reads: “That you, Shitou Shizilong and Genting International Co. Limited, on or
about the 11th December, 2024 at No.7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Lagos, within
the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, wilfully caused to be accessed, a computer
system which was organized to seriously destabilize the economic and social structure of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria, by procuring and employing several Nigerian youths for identity theft and other
computer related fraud, and you thereby committed an offence, contrary to and punishable under Section
18 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention, etc.) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2015
(as amended).”
Another count reads: “That you, PENG LI JAUN A.K.A HAN LI JAUN and GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED,
sometime in December, 2024 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, wilfully caused
to be accessed, computer systems organised to seriously destabilise the economic and social structure
of Nigeria (which prohibits and prevents cyber and related crimes) when you procured/employed Nigerian
youths for identity theft and to hold themselves out as persons of foreign nationality, with the intent
to gain financial advantage for yourselves and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under Section 18 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015 (As Amended, 2024).”
They each pleaded not guilty to the offences when they were read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, L.P. Aso, M.K. Bashir, N. K. Ukoha, T.J. Banjo, M. S.
Owede, B.B. Buhari, C.C.Okezie, H.U. Kofarnaisa and Z.B.Atiku, respectively prayed the court for trial
dates and for the defendants to be remanded in the appropriate correctional centres.
Justice Faji adjourned the matter till February 10, 11, 17, 18, 19 and 2025.
Justice Dipeolu adjourned the matter till February 7, 15, 21, 24 and 28, 2025; Justice Owoeye adjourned
the matter till February 20, 21, 24, 28 and March 18, 2025; and Justice Aneke adjourned the matter till
March 7, 2025, for trial and remanded the defendants at both Ikoyi and Kirikiri Correctional Centres.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arraigns-29-chinese-10-filipinos-three-others-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition question: Who or what entity(ies) control GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO. LIMITED?
***********************************************
31 JAN 2025
EFCC Arraigns 11 Chinese, One Filipino for Alleged Internet Fraud
In Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Friday, January 31, 2025, arraigned 11 Chinese, one Filipino and a
company, Genting International Co. Ltd, before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the
Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The defendants are: Wang Zheng Ming, Li Yin Hui, Xian Hong Will, Zhang Xiao Lei,
Long Zhao Ming, Guo Xiao Fei, Yang Sheng, Wang Zheng Feng, Chen Wenyuan, Liu San
Hua, Luo Jia You and Rheign Dela Vega.
They are members of the syndicate of 792 alleged cryptocurrency investment and
romance fraud suspects arrested on December 19, 2024 in Lagos during a surprise
operation tagged “Eagle Flush Operation” by operatives of the EFCC.
The suspects were arraigned on separate charges bordering on alleged cybercrimes,
cyber-terrorism, possession of documents containing false pretence and identity
theft, among others.
One of the counts reads: “That you, LI YIN HUI and GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO.
LIMITED, on or about the 18th of December 2024 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction
of this Honorable Court, willfully caused to be accessed computer systems organised
to seriously destabilise the constitutional structure of Nigeria (which prohibits
nd prevents cyber and related crimes) when you procured/employed Nigerian youths
for identity theft and to hold themselves out as persons of foreign nationality,
with the intent to gain financial advantage for yourselves and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 18 and 27 of the Cybercrimes
Prohibition, Prevention, Etc Act, 2015 (As Amended,2024).”
Another count reads: "That you, LUO JIA YOU (AKA A. YOU) sometime in December
2024 at Lagos, Nigeria, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, willfully
gave false information to officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
in the course of investigation when you were being questioned for being part of a
criminal syndicate group, specialized in Romance scam, crypto currency fraud, cyber
terrorism amongst others; and in order to mislead them, you falsely represented your
name as A. YOU and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 39(2) of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004 and punishable
under Section 39(2) (b) of the same Act.”
Another charge reads: “That you, LONG SHAO MING A.K.A LING YANG, sometime in December
2024 in Lagos , within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, with intent to defraud,
had in your possession documents containing false pretence, wherein you held yourself
out as 'Linda Maureen', a citizen of the United States of America, which document you
knew to be false and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 6 and punishable
under 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other fraud related Offences Act, 2006. “
They each pleaded “not guilty” to the offences when they were read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, L.P. Aso, M. K.Bashir, T. J .Banjo, N. K .
Ukoha and B. Buhari-Bala, prayed the court for trial dates and for the defendants to be
remanded in the appropriate Correctional facilities.
Justice Dipeolu adjourned the matter till 7, 14 and 21 February, 2025 for trial and
remanded the defendants at the Ikoyi and Kirikiri Correctional Centres.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-11-chinese-one-filipino-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition question: Who or what entity(ies) control GENTING INTERNATIONAL CO.
LIMITED?
**************************************************
27 JAN 2027
From NBC News(US)by way of Yahoo News(US):
Nigerian man extradited to U.S. accused of 'sextortion' of South Carolina
teen who died by suicide
A Nigerian man who was indicted in connection with the "sextortion" of a South
Carolina teen who died by suicide has been extradited to the United States to
face prosecution, the Justice Department said Monday.
Gavin Guffey, 17, died by suicide in 2022 after, prosecutors allege, Hassanbunhussein
Abolore Lawal extorted him using "compromising photos," the U.S. Attorney’s Office for
the District of South Carolina announced.
A lawsuit filed in South Carolina in 2023 alleges Lawal posed as a young woman and
coerced Guffey into sending him sexually explicit content in 2022. Lawal then threatened
to leak the content if Guffey didn't send him money, it says.
Lawal is alleged to have sent harassing messages to Guffey and some of his relatives,
threatening to leak the pictures and ruin their public reputation unless they sent him
money, court documents say.
Guffey was the son of state Rep. Brandon Guffey. After his son's death, Brandon Guffey
went on to sponsor a bill known as "Gavin's Law," which made sexual extortion a felony
offense in the state and an aggravated felony "if the victim is a minor, vulnerable adult,
or if the victim suffers bodily injury or death directly related to the crime," according
to Gov. Henry McMaster's office. McMaster signed the bill into law in August 2023.
Brandon Guffey did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
A grand jury returned an indictment for Lawal in October 2023, according to the U.S.
attorney's office. He was charged with child exploitation resulting in death, child
pornography distribution, coercion and enticement of a minor, cyberstalking resulting
in death and interstate threat with intent to extort, the indictment said.
On Friday, FBI Columbia field office agents took custody of Lawal in Lagos, Nigeria,
and conducted the extradition with help from Nigerian law enforcement authorities.
He was arraigned Monday in federal court in Columbia.
"We will not allow predators who target our children to hide behind a keyboard or
across the ocean," said the U.S. attorney for South Carolina, Adair Ford Boroughs.
"Today we honor Gavin’s life and continue our fight against sextortion by holding
this defendant accountable."
If he is found guilty, Lawal could spend life in prison. He would also face "mandatory
minimum prison sentences on multiple counts," including a mandatory 30-year sentence
for the charge of child exploitation resulting in death, according to the U.S. attorney's
office. Lawal might also be ordered to pay the Guffey family restitution for the losses
in the scheme.
The investigation, arrest and extradition were a partnership between law enforcement
in the United States and Nigeria, and the case is part of Project Safe Childhood, "a
nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse,"
the U.S. attorney's office said.
The article includes a photo:
nigerian-man-extradited
*********************************
25 JAN 2025
EFCC Names Academy Building after Slain Officer
As a gesture of immortalizing a slain officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASE1 Aminu Sahabi Salisu,
the Commission has named the administrative block of its Academy in Karu, Abuja
after him.
Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede disclosed this in Abuja on
Saturday, January 25, 2025 while addressing staff of the Commission at the
Annual Rewards and Recognition Ceremony held at the EFCC’s Academy.
According to him, Salisu paid the supreme price in the service of the nation and
his memory should be kept alive. “We are saddened by the loss of our officer while
on official assignment. He was a gallant officer and to this effect, the administrative
block of the Academy is hereby named after him”, he said.
At the ceremony, 36 officers of the Commission were rewarded in different categories.
The categories include section with highest recovery, section with highest conviction,
lawyer with highest conviction, best departmental staff, best zonal directorate, staff
of the year, among others.
Commenting on the winners of various rewards, the EFCC boss stated that "I want to
congratulate all the winners for their roles. I can only charge you all not to rest
on our oars. Excellence is not about doing things right once in a while, it is about
doing things right all the time. You need to continue to offer the best as the reward
for hard work is more work". Olukoyede also disclosed that 900 staff had been
promoted as well as the reinstatement of life and property insurance for staff.
He used the occasion to warn officers of the Commission against compromise of the core
values of the EFCC, stressing that "the internal cleansing going on in the Commission
will spare no one".
Among recipients of the rewards, Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Alvan Gurumnaan
emerged Staff of the Year while the Sokoto Zonal Directorate emerged the Best Directorate
of the Year. The rest are: Bitrus Yakubu, Katmi Kefas, Halilu Dauda, Nenman Danladi,
Oluwakemi Aaron, Yusuf Umar, Michael Adukwu Uchechika, David Solomon, among others.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-names-academy-building-after-slain-officer
********************************************
24 JAN 2025
South-East Students to EFCC: “We are Sorry for the Loss of your Officer”
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-East Zone have condoled
with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on the loss of one of its
operatives, Aminu Sahabi Salisu, stressing that his death caused them grief and regret.
Salisu, an Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASE11 was killed in cold blood while
on a legitimate duty by a suspected internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu
on January 17, 2025.
The students expressed their grief and solidarity with the Commission on Friday, January
24, 2025 when a delegation, led by Comrade Charles Obinna Ijeomah paid a condolence
visit to the EFCC’s Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede at the Commission’s corporate
headquarters, Abuja.
While pledging the collaboration, cooperation and support of the entire Southeast students
to the Commission, Ijeomah stated that “As the coordinator of the National Association of
Nigeria Students (NANS), Southeast, the onus falls on me and my colleagues here to ensure
that we sanitize and give proper orientation to our students not to indulge in anything
that has to do with internet crime and we have been succeeding.
“We are very sorry for the incident that happened lately in Awka. Maybe you may have seen
our comments, our stand, we condemned it. An operative was shot in the process of carrying
out his official duty. Whatever that is going on in Southeast is being controlled by students
and I am their leader. I cannot watch and see things go wrong. That is why we condemned the
killing of that operative.
He stated further that, “we are here to let the authority of EFCC understand that we commiserate
with you and to tell you not to judge the Southeast with what happened. Such acts are not in our
blood. It is not in our nature. We are hardworking people. We don't indulge in crime. Anybody
that indulges in crime in the Southeast is not a true son of Igbo. We know how to make money
but this idea of being in one room with a device to trick someone is not in our blood.
“We are sad for the loss of the operative. We say sorry to the Enugu Zonal Command and to the
EFCC authority for what happened. We assure you that such a thing can never happen again. Our
aim of coming here is to let EFCC know that Southeast students are with them and that we're going
to partner with you more to educate our students in the Southeast region to avoid any kind of
internet crime. We are here to bring you the news that we are 100 percent open to any form of
interaction, collaboration and cooperation between the students of South-east and the EFCC. We
are promising you total collaboration. By the time I get to Enugu after this meeting, we will
be visiting the Zonal Command and pay a courtesy visit there too to let them know that they
are not alone, that we are with them. We are the people controlling the youth in the streets
of the South-east.”
Speaking further, Ijeomah disclosed that the union had programmes and proposals that when
implemented, will bring the EFCC closer to university campuses in the Southeast and help to
further sensitize the students. “We are promising you that we are going to work with you. We
want to let EFCC know that this also provides an opportunity for the Commission to come and
give orientation to our students in the Southeast. We will welcome you with an open heart”,
he said.
The Commission Secretary, Mr. Muhammad Hammajoda who received the delegation on behalf of
the Executive Chairman expressed appreciation to the students on the condolence visit, noting
that “every one of us is a stakeholder in the fight against corruption directly or indirectly.
We don't have any other country apart from Nigeria. You spent your personal money and time to be
with us for you to understand what we are doing and to also be part of us. We appreciate you
and we will continue to appreciate you. We will support you in trying to disseminate anti-
corruption information.”
While urging the students to take advantage of the federal government’s Student’s Loan Scheme,
he promised that the Commission will identify with all the noble programmes of the students in
the zone if invited. “We will be there for you in all the programmes that you outlined. Please
give us an invitation. We will be there. We will be there to be part of you.”
Hammajoda encouraged the students’ leaders on their crusade against students’ involvement in
internet crime. "We are sinking day by day with corruption. So let's educate ourselves that
this cyber crime will not take you anywhere. All of us are victims. Nobody has protection
against it. Anyone can be attacked. We have a very sound youth population with a very high
IQ (intelligence quotient) and ingenuity to do many things," he said.
While lending his voice against youths' involvement in internet crime, Chief of Staff to the
Executive Chairman, Commander of the EFCC, CE Michael Nzekwe noted that “cybercrime has
done too much damage to us as a country. If you check and find out how much it affected us,
you'll be shocked. Internationally, the image of the country has been battered. When you travel
outside the country they look at you in a certain way with your green passport. So, cybercrime
is just one thing that all of us have to put our hands together and be deliberate and intentional
to see that we eliminate. EFCC has done so much in ensuring that.”
Besides leveraging on NELFUND, Nzekwe reminded the students of the Credit Scheme of the
federal government as a handy window of opportunity for meeting their needs. “There's
also the credit scheme that is available for students that this government has put in place.
So take that as a message to your students that they can assess this fund and the issue of
poverty will not even arise.”
Rather than diminish, he noted that the trend of internet crime is rather skyrocketing in the
Southeast. “You said that in the Southeast that you are hard working people and traders, but
can I be honest with you? the level of yahoo yahoo in the Southeast and other cybercrimes has
skyrocketed, and it has not just skyrocketed, it has gotten to the level which they call yahoo
plus. They have become ritualists and kidnappers. Why would you have a gun in the house and
open fire on someone on a legitimate duty? We are glad that you realized that this is wrong.
You have also seen our own Press Release. We have said it very clearly and with a strong voice,
that EFCC will not condone that or tolerate that from anybody, whoever the person is, never again.”
The press release incldes a photo of slain Officer Aminu Sahabi Salisu:
south-east-students-to-efcc-we-are-sorry-for-the-loss-of-your-officer
************************************************
23 JAN 2025
EFCC’s Works Impressive - US Director
The United States Director of Narcotics and Law Enforcement in the Nigerian Embassy,
Candace Spradley, has expressed delight with the efforts and successes of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in its crusade against economic and financial
crimes and other acts of corruption, describing them as impressive.
She made the observation in Abuja on Thursday, January 23, 2025 when she led a delegation
of officials of Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) on a courtesy visit to the Executive
Chairman, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede at the Commission’s corporate headquarters, Abuja.
“I am so pleased to be with you here, today. We've come just to greet you. I'm quite new
on my assignment. I've been in the country for about five months now. However, earlier
on in my career with the Department of State, I learned about the EFCC and all of the
very impressive work that you all have been doing to advance anti-corruption and financial
crime efforts. So, I've known for a very long time about the work of your organization
and it was part of the reason that I chose to come here because of the very strong and
impressive cooperation from EFCC and similar government bodies in the U.S.
Continuing, Spradley stated that, “I should just start by saying congratulations to
you for the impressive work that the organization has done under your tenure and certainly
the name that it has made for the government of Nigeria in Washington. It is an outstanding
and impressive work that has a very far reach”,
She also sought stronger collaboration “on issues of cybercrime, asset forfeiture and
recovery, and certainly on issues of anti-corruption and transparency which are top in
mind for the US Embassy and a priority for our Ambassador here”.
Olukoyede who expressed appreciation on behalf of the staff and management of the EFCC,
noted that there was a convergence in the mandate of the Commission and that of INL and
appealed for synergy between the two organizations.
“The mandates that are set before you and ours are quite similar. There is a relationship
between dealing in narcotics and money laundering. One of our key mandates is to fight
money laundering and money laundering has presumably become one of the biggest financial
crimes with global dimension. That is why it has become very imperative for the international
community to come together and form synergy to fight these crimes. So it is important for us
to work together”.
The EFCC’s boss further stated that the Commission had robust synergy with the American
Embassy and FBI. “We have a very strong partnership and we plan to build on that in the
area of capacity building. The relationship has been of mutual benefits and we will
continue to build on that,” he said. Olukoyede also drew the attention of the delegation
to the growing involvement of expatriates in internet fraud in Nigeria. He lamented the
trend and vowed that the country would be made inhospitable for such anti-social expatriates.
“You are aware of the recent international crime that was busted in Nigeria that involved
close to 200 foreigners. You now know who has been perpetrating cybercrime in our system
using the identity of Nigerians. That goes to show you that these crimes we are fighting
have international dimensions to them. Investigations have revealed that some of these guys
were dislodged from some parts of South Asia and they are now looking for a safe haven within
the African Continent from where they would be attacking targets across the world. Nigeria
is not going to create that environment for them to survive. We will deploy intelligence-driven
operations to get them out of our system”, he said.
The press release contains a photo:
efccs-works-impressive-us-director
419 Coalition comment: We'd also like to see "stronger collaboration" with various governments
and Counter-419 NGOs on "issues of cybercrime, asset forfeiture and recovery... and transparancy".
We'd also like to note that our interpretation of the mass arrest of 200 or so foreign nationals
among the recent arrest of 700 419ers made in a high profile office buiding in Lagos differs a bit
from the interpretation in the last paragraph in the article. Our view is that the 419 operation
targeted was operating much as most multi-national corprations do from their home offices. That
is, foreign nationals and native speakers are customarily hired for sales, customer service, and
other functions related to countries in which the multi-national wants to do, or is doing, business.
In short, our wiew is that the foreigners were most likely Staff of a Nigerian run 419 cartel,
rather than the Operators of said cartel who merely employed Nigerian nationals as staff. Our
view is that more likely it was Nigerian 419ers who were the Ogas of the operation, who recruited
and employed the foreigners as staff... rather than vice-versa, as asserted in the above article.
*************************************
22 JAN 2025
EFCC Arrests 37 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Awka
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested 37 (Thirty-seven) suspected internet
fraudsters.
The all-male suspects were arrested in a sting operation at Commissioners’
Quarters, Dr. J. O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka, Anambra State, following
credible intelligence linking them to fraudulent internet activities.
Items recovered from them include six exotic cars, laptops and mobile phones.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-37-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-awka
********************************************
19 JAN 2025
EFCC Condemns False Narratives on Loss of Officer
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, expresses grief on the
loss of one of its officers, Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASE11
Aminu Sahabi Salisu who was killed in cold blood while on a legitimate duty
on January 17, 2025 by a suspected internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze
Ikechukwu.
Additionally, the Commission views with great concern the irresponsible, callous,
inhuman and outrageous narratives being circulated on social media on the whys
and wherefores of the fatal accident. It is heinous to reduce the death of a
gallant officer who was carrying out patriotic and official duties to social
media razzmatazz.
More worrisome is the fact that some faceless commentators are pitching their
tents with an alleged criminal who unleashed terror on officers of the EFCC in
their line of duty. There is no justification whatsoever to rationalise a murderous
act. The milk of human kindness demands that a grieving family, Commission and
nation should be spared the shenanigans of false narratives and conjectures on the
death of the slain officer.
Salisu, alongside other investigators of the EFCC, were at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife
Close, Ifite, Awka, Anambra State, to arrest some suspected internet fraudsters
in the early hours of January 17. The operation was duly documented at the Anambra
State Command Headquarters and Area Command of the Nigeria Police in line with
operational protocols.
The operation was initially smooth sailing with 37 suspected internet fraudsters
already arrested at a two-storey building housing Ikechukwu and other occupants
of the house.
However, Ikechukwu, who sighted the investigators through a CCTV Camera
mounted at his doorpost and who also confessed sighting them, declined
to open his door for the investigators who politely demanded entrance to
his apartment. Defying all the introduction and physical sighting of the
investigators, he resorted to firing shots at them and killed Salisu in
the process and wounded another officer detailed to conduct a search in
his apartment.
Preliminary investigations showed that Ikechukwu was involved in coding and online
medical supplies of doubtful legitimacy. Two laptops, ipads, several recording
devices were recovered from his apartment and his involvement in internet fraud
is already established. Though currently in police custody owing to the murderous
dimension of his case, the Commission will surely bring him to trial.
The EFCC also wishes to alert the public that the activities of internet fraudsters
are becoming patently hazardous to public safety and security. 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
that they are mere “Yahoo boys and girls”.
As for the EFCC, every subsequent attack on any of its officers will be met with the
force of the law. The Commission will not fold its arms and allow any of its officers
to be killed again in cold blood. As a law enforcement agency of repute, the EFCC is
unrelenting in riding the nation of internet fraud and other acts of corruption.
While mourning the loss of its officer who paid the supreme price in the service of
the nation, the Commission appreciates the invaluable support, condolences and prompt
response of sister agencies and well-meaning individuals standing shoulder to shoulder
with it at this trying time.
efcc-condemns-false-narratives-on-loss-of-officer
419 Coalition note: We express our condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues
of Officer Salisu. 419ing is not always a nonviolent crime. Victims have been killed
in the past. It was only a matter of time before an Officer was killed. Counter-419ing
is a dangerous operation where EFCC officers and counter-419 operations often deal with
powerful and dangerous 419 criminals. We are very sorry that Officer Salisu gave his
final measure while fighting the good fight. We thank him for his service and devotion
to duty, and honour his name. Coordinator, 419 Coalition
********************************************
17 JAN 2025
EFCC Arrests 25 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Yahoo Academy
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday January 16, 2025 arrested 25 suspected
internet fraudsters in a cybercrime training centre in Benin City, Edo state
The suspects’ arrest at their hideout was triggered by credible intelligence
that indicated the apartment being used as a yahoo academy or training school
for internet-related fraud and other fraudulent activities.
Items recovered from the suspects include six exotic cars, laptops and phones.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-25-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-yahoo-academy
**********************************
16 JAN 2025
Court Jails Fake Spiritualist for Internet Fraud in Ilorin
Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar of the Kwara State High Court, sitting in Ilorin
on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, convicted and sentenced one Odeyemi Hammed
Oluwaseun to one year imprisonment for internet fraud.
The convict, a self-styled spiritualist was prosecuted by the Ilorin Zonal
Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on a two-
count charge that bordered on internet fraud, impersonation and obtaining
by false pretences.
Count one of the charges reads: "That you, Odeyemi Hammed Oluwaseun, sometime
in December, 2023 in Ilorin, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
dishonestly induced one Bose to send $3200.00 (Three Thousand Two Hundred
Dollars) worth of gift cards to you, with the impression that the same would
be used to diabolically influence her ex-husband to return and marry her, while
you pretended and represented yourself to be one Lord Hill, a female spiritualist
with email account hillor674@gmail.com, and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 321 of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 324 of
the same Penal Code.”
Count two reads: "That you, Odeyemi Hammed Oluwaseun, between August, 2023
to September, 2023 in Ilorin within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
dishonestly induced one Schneider Alina to send $4500.00 (Four Thousand, Five
Hundred Dollar) worth of gift cards to you, with the impression that the same
would be used to diabolically control her ex-boyfriend to return and marry her,
while you represented yourself to be a female spiritualist with Instagram account
_Visions_by_Tendo_12 and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
321 of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 324 of the same Penal Code"
He pleaded guilty to the charges when they were read to him, following which
prosecution counsel, Sesan Ola reviewed the facts of the case, tendered the
convict’s extra-judicial statements and evidence, including the sum of $1000
(One Thousand United States Dollars) recovered from him and prayed the court
to convict and sentence him as charged.
Convinced that the prosecution has proven its case beyond reasonable doubt,
Justice Abdulgafar sentenced Oluwaseun to six months suspended jail term on
each of the counts, and ordered that the sum of $1000 (One Thousand United
States Dollars), iPhone 15 and 2008 Toyota Camry car recovered from him be
forfeited to the federal government.
Oluwaseun, a 23-year-old man that hails from Oyo State, defrauded his victims
on the internet by posing as an American-based female spiritualist with powers
to cause jilted women and estranged wives to regain the affection of their men.
The press release contains a photo of the convict:
court-jails-fake-spiritualist-for-internet-fraud-in-ilorin
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14 JAN 2025
EFCC Arrests Seven Suspected Internet Fraudsters
in Benin City
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 arrested seven
uspected internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State.
The suspects were arrested based on credible intelligence on their alleged
involvement in internet- related fraud.
Items recovered from them include one Lexus car, laptops and phones.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-seven-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
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10 JAN 2025
EFCC Arrests 105 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, acting
on intelligence on emerging internet crimes involving foreigners, on Thursday,
January 9, 2025 broke another syndicate of fraudsters specializing in hotel
review job scam, targeting mostly United Kingdom victims.
They arrested 105 suspects comprising four Chinese and 101 Nigerians at Naka
Hall Plaza in Abutu Garba Street, Gudu, Abuja. 100 compact Work Stations were
recovered from the suspects.
How the Fraud Works:
Hotel Review Job Scam is a globally- entrenched internet-related fraud that
is newly appearing on the Nigerian space.
The modus operandi involves Chinese who usually recruit local and computer-savvy
Nigerians as Customer Service Representatives.
The Representatives are made to work on a prepared template of criminality online.
They are given identities and names usually foreign, through which they chat with
expatriates. The crime involves making false representation to victims to win
their trust to engage in hotel ratings with promises of $5 for every hotel that
is reviewed. As the victims get paid, they are encouraged to review more hotels
and the payment is increased to $10 per rating. After a long while, the victim
is encouraged to make bookings in any of the rated hotels for as much as $500
and that the company would pay back with chunky interest into a crypto wallet
bearing their names. After making bookings, the victim would not be able to
open the wallet and his or her money is lost.
The fraud is an intricate mechanism of defrauding foreigners and it is targeted
at victims in Europe and other parts of the world.
We are working with other law enforcement agencies across the world to dig deeper
into the global dimensions involved in this crime.
Abuja Arrest a Further Intelligence Connected to the Lagos 792 Fraudsters
The EFCC achieved this latest breakthrough barely a month after 792 suspected
investment and internet fraudsters were arrested by operatives of the Commission
on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. They were arrested at an edifice known as Big
Leaf Building at No 7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. This is
almost concluded and the suspects will be charged to court in the coming days.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-four-chinese-101-others-for-suspected-internet-fraud-in-abuja
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10 JAN 2025
From Vanguard(NG) newspapaper via Nigeriaworld(US and NG) website:
Nigerian man jailed 11 years in US for money laundering, passport fraud
A 37-year-old Nigerian man, Chukwunonso Obiora, has been sentenced to 11 years
in prison for his involvement in separate criminal schemes, including laundering
fraud proceeds and obtaining a U.S. passport through false statements.
The announcement via a statement was made on January 5, 2025, by U.S. Attorney
Joshua S. Levy and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security
Investigations New England, through the U.S. Department of Justice.
He was arrested in October 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia, on a criminal complaint and
was held pending trial. In January 2024, he was indicted for his crimes.
The statement reads, “Between at least as early as March 2021 and May 2023, Obiora
and several co-conspirators agreed to receive and withdraw the proceeds of business
email compromises (BECs) from bank accounts that they controlled, and to direct those
funds to other co-conspirators, in exchange for a cut of the criminal proceeds. BECs
are a type of fraud scheme that targets companies that make regular business payments
by wire. Cybercriminals use email to impersonate trusted parties to the payments in
order to trick the victim companies into sending money to bank accounts controlled
by participants in the scheme.
“The defendant’s money laundering conspiracy, of which he admitted to being a leader
and organizer, involved obtaining individual victims’ means of identification and to
create fake driver’s licenses, incorporate businesses and open bank accounts in the
victims’ names; providing the bank accounts to co-conspirators involved in the BEC
schemes as accounts to which victims could be tricked into sending wires; withdrawing
money quickly from the bank accounts once the wire transfers arrived, before victim
companies learned that they had been tricked into sending money; and depositing the
proceeds into other accounts, and wiring BEC scheme proceeds to the defendant and
others in Nigeria, China and elsewhere.
“The defendant and his co-conspirators took steps to conceal the existence of the
conspiracy, including by forging business invoices and writing false memos on checks
to suggest that the BEC scheme proceeds deposited into Destination Accounts were
legitimate business revenues; and by making false statements to banks regarding the
nature of the BEC scheme proceeds that were deposited into Destination Accounts.
“The defendant and his U.S.-based co-conspirators shared at least as much as 40 percent
of the deposited BEC scheme proceeds as payment for their roles in the conspiracy. In
just two-plus years, the defendant and his co-conspirators engaged in at least $6.5
million in financial transactions involving the proceeds of BEC schemes.
“After immigration authorities removed the defendant from the United States in December
2021, he agreed with a close relative who is an American citizen to obtain a U.S. passport
in the relative’s name, which the defendant could use to re-enter the United States illegally.
The relative reported his passport lost or stolen and, in May 2023, applied for a new passport
at a U.S. Post Office in Watertown, Mass. The sworn application had the relative’s name on
it, but a picture of the defendant. The relative sent the issued passport to the defendant,
who, in October 2023, used the passport to travel from Nigeria to Detroit, Mich., where the
defendant presented himself as his relative at the U.S. border.”
The investigation received critical support from the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic
Security Service and its Criminal Investigations Division. The case was prosecuted by
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth B. Kosto, Chief of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud
Unit.
The article contains photos:
nigeriaworld.com/news/source/2025/jan/10/30
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8 JAN 2025
Billionaire Internet Fraudster Bags Two Years in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has secured the
conviction of one Chima Hyginus Nkwocha, a.k.a "Young Billionaire,"
for cheating by impersonation and money laundering.
He was jailed on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.
Nkwocha was arraigned before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court,
Maitama, Abuja, on a two-count charge bordering on cheating by impersonation
and money laundering.
One of the counts read: "That you, Chima Hyginus Nkwocha (AKA Frank Nils,
Frank Cobert, Frank Brown & Chettot), sometime in 2022 in Abuja within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did fraudulently impersonate Frank
Nils, Frank Cobert, Frank Brown, and Chiress Riffatt on Gmail and Google
Voice using the Gmail addresses frankcorbett272@gmail.com and chriressrifatt@gmail.com
with intent to defraud, fraudulently obtaining a cumulative sum of Three Hundred
and Forty-Five Thousand Dollars ($345,000) from Linda Wheeler, an American, and
receiving the naira equivalent through Ginux Global Nigeria Limited with account
No. 1228782493 domiciled in Zenith Bank, thereby committing an offence contrary
to Section 22(2) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015
and punishable under Section 22(4) of the Act."
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charges when they were read to him.
Following his guilty plea, prosecution counsel, Lanre Adeola Olariwaju, reviewed
the case against Nkwocha and prayed the court to convict him accordingly.
According to Olariwaju, the convict was arrested in August 2024 at the Lugbe
area of Abuja following an intelligence received by the EFCC's Advanced Fee
Fraud Section. Items recovered during his arrest included: A black Mercedes
Benz ML 350 with registration no. B-2 and Chassis no. 4JGDA5HB9DA105827,
two gold necklaces with pendants, one gold bracelet, $2,200 cash, N90,280,934.00
in the Ginux Global Nigeria Ltd Zenith Bank (account no. 1228782493), for
which Nkwocha was the sole signatory.
A three-bedroom terrace duplex at Cookies Court 2, 2nd Avenue, Ocean Palm Estate,
Ogombo, Sangotedo, Ajah, Lagos, a three-bedroom bungalow and two self-contained
apartments situated on Plot B023, Standard Estate, Galadima, Abuja, and a plot of
land measuring about 300 square meters at Eko Beach City, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos,
two Zenith Bank drafts worth N5,000,000 and N3,000,000, dated September 12, 2024,
and October 17, 2024, respectively. An iPhone 13 Pro Max, a Samsung Galaxy S21
Ultra, and a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Nkwocha also confessed to impersonating Frank Nils, Frank Cobert, Frank Brown,
and Chiress Riffatt using gmail and google voice to defraud Linda Wheeler, an
American, of $345,000. He received the naira equivalent through Ginux Global
Nigeria Ltd's Zenith Bank account.
Olariwaju tendered several pieces of evidence, including the defendant's
extrajudicial statements, electronic devices, forensic investigation reports,
among others . The defence raised no objections and the court admitted all
evidence as exhibits.
Justice Nwite, satisfied with the EFCC’s submissions, found Nkwocha guilty.
The court sentenced him to two years' imprisonment with an option of a fine
of N2,000,000.
Additionally, the court ordered the forfeiture of the following items, being
proceeds of crime, to the Federal Government of Nigeria: a black Mercedes Benz
ML 350, gold jewelry and $2,200 cash, N90,280,934.00 in the Ginux Global Nigeria
Ltd Zenith Bank account, properties in Lagos, Abuja, and Lekki, the Zenith Bank
drafts and the electronic devices recovered from the convict.
Nkwocha's journey to the Correctional Centre began when he was arrested
for internet fraud. He was charged to court and pleaded guilty to two-count
charges raised against him.
The court thereafter found him guilty and sentenced him to two years imprisonment.
The court ordered the forfeiture of all he fraudulently amassed to the government.
billionaire-internet-fraudster-bags-two-years-in-abuja
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6 JAN 2025
EFCC Dismisses 27 Officers for Fraudulent Activities, Misconduct
In its quest to enforce integrity and rid its fold of fraudulent elements,
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, dismissed twenty seven
(27) officers from its workforce in 2024.
The officers were dismissed for various offences bordering on fraudulent activities
and misconduct. Their dismissal, FOLLOWING THE RECOMMENDATION OF
THE STAFF Disciplinary Committee of the EFCC, was ratified by the
Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede.
Olukoyede reiterated the commitment of the Commission to zero tolerance for
corruption, warning that no officer is immune to disciplinary measures. Every
modicum of allegation against any staff of the Commission would always be
investigated, including a trending $400,000 claim of a yet-to-be-identified
supposed staff of the EFCC against a Sectional Head. The core values of the
Commission are sacrosanct and would always be held in optimal regard at all
times.
The Commission also wishes to alert the public of the sinister activities of
impersonators and blackmailers using the name of its Executive Chairman to
extort money from high-profile suspects being investigated by the EFCC.
Two members of an alleged syndicate, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim were recently
arraigned before Justice Jude Onwuebuzie of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT,
High Court, Abuja for allegedly contacting a former Managing Director of the
Nigerian Ports Authority, Mr. Mohammed Bello-Kaka and demanding $1million from
him for “Olukoyede to give him soft landing” on a non-existing investigation.
Such characters are still on the loose seeking victims.
Olukoyede remains a man of integrity that cannot be swayed by monetary influences.
The public is enjoined to always report such disreputable elements to the Commission.
Additionally, the EFCC is aware of moves being hatched in some quarters to blackmail
officers of the Commission through unwholesome means. Suspects being investigated
for some economic and financial crimes who have failed to compromise their investigators
would always clutch at any straw. Such blackmailers should not be accorded any form
of attention.
efcc-dismisses-27-officers-for-fraudulent-activities-misconduct
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