The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 17 youths suspected of engaging in internet scams in Ilorin, Kwara State. The suspects were arrested across different locations following a credible intelligence which led to tracing them for suspicious online activities.
The suspects were arrested by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command, as announced by officials. The operation was carried out by the team after weeks of surveillance. During the arrest, laptops, mobile phones, and other devices believed to be employed in online scam were confiscated.
The EFCC said the suspects were being interrogated and would be charged as soon as investigations are completed. The agency also warned others involved in such operations to desist, as the law would eventually catch up with them.
Flashback: EFCC’s Crackdown Continues
This is not the first instance of a so large number being arrested in Kwada. In August 2023, the same EFCC Zonal Office arrested over 20 suspects in romance scams and fraudulent investment platforms. That operation led to several convictions, with many of them being imprisoned and forfeiting assets to the government.
Back to the Current Arrest
The 17 suspects are all believed to be part of a network that preys on vulnerable victims in Nigeria as well as abroad. Their electronic data are also under scrutiny by investigators to gather more evidence. The EFCC said that it would continue to pursue and arrest anyone it found involved in financial crimes.
They were called upon to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The commission also encouraged young Nigerians to desist from crime and pursue legitimate means of earning their money.
