A total of 40 individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud were arrested by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in a major operation carried out in Bida and Minna, Niger State, on Tuesday, April 15. The operation, led by the EFCC’s Kaduna Zonal Directorate, followed what authorities described as credible intelligence linking the suspects to online scam activities, often referred to as “yahoo-yahoo.”
The EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the arrests and revealed a wide range of items recovered during the raid. Among the items were three cars, eight power generators, a Hisense air conditioner, two power stabilisers, 10 motorcycles, eight laptop computers, four Bluetooth speakers and 60 Android phones.
Investigators also uncovered several items believed to be fetish objects. These included three calabashes decorated with feathers, a traditional sponge and soap set, a bottle of hot drink, 20 cowries, a waist bead, and four pieces of women’s underwear. These items are often associated with rituals believed by some to bring spiritual protection or financial fortune.
According to Oyewale, all suspects remain in custody while further investigations continue. He added that charges would be filed against them once the investigation is complete.
This latest crackdown adds to the growing list of similar operations across Nigeria, as the EFCC intensifies efforts to tackle cybercrime and restore public confidence in digital and financial systems.
