The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended 792 individuals in Lagos State for allegedly conducting training sessions aimed at teaching Nigerians how to commit online fraud.
The EFCC disclosed that the scheme involved manipulating victims through fake romantic promises, deceiving them into transferring money. This revelation was made by Wilson Uwujaren, the EFCC spokesperson, on behalf of Ola Olukoyede, the Commission’s Chairman.
Details of the Operation
On Monday, December 16, 2024, Olukoyede explained that the EFCC had launched an investigation into a seven-story building located on Oyin Jolayemi Road, Victoria Island, Lagos. The operation uncovered a sophisticated fraud network operating from the building.
The arrests included 148 Chinese nationals, 40 Filipinos, two Kazakhs, and one Pakistani, in addition to 634 Nigerians. These individuals were found on various floors of the building, where illegal activities were allegedly being carried out.
Evidence of Fraudulent Activities
The EFCC revealed that investigators discovered 500 mobile phone lines and multiple communication devices on the building’s fifth floor, all of which were being used to commit fraud. The suspects were reportedly targeting individuals in countries such as the United States, Canada, Mexico, and parts of Europe.
Olukoyede explained that the syndicate trained Nigerians to assume fake identities on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram. Victims were lured into conversations that eventually led to financial scams.
The EFCC also pointed to the use of a fraudulent website, www.yooto.com, where victims were required to pay at least $35 to begin negotiations. If Nigerian recruits failed to achieve the intended fraud, the foreign trainers would take over to complete the operation.
Methods of Payment and Hidden Activities
According to the EFCC, the syndicate avoided conventional bank transfers when compensating their recruits. Instead, they used cash handovers to prevent leaving financial trails. Cryptocurrency was also employed to conceal the flow of money and evade detection.
Olukoyede stressed that the building itself appeared to be a legitimate office complex, making it difficult to suspect the illegal activities occurring inside.
Items Seized and Ongoing Investigation
During the operation, the EFCC confiscated various items, including laptops, mobile phones, and a vehicle. The suspects’ statements have been taken, and investigations are still ongoing to uncover the full extent of the syndicate’s activities.
International Fraud Networks
The EFCC Chairman emphasized that this case highlights the involvement of foreign nationals in fraud operations within Nigeria. He stated: “This incident demonstrates that not all fraudulent activities in Nigeria are committed by Nigerians.”
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to identifying and dismantling criminal networks while ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice.
