130 Arrested in Major Cybercrime Bust by Nigeria Police, Including Foreign Nationals

 

In a significant crackdown on cybercrime, the Nigeria Police Force has apprehended 130 individuals, including 113 foreign nationals and 17 Nigerian collaborators, suspected of being involved in high-level hacking and activities that pose a threat to national security. The foreign nationals, primarily of Chinese and Malaysian origin, include 87 men and 26 women, while the Nigerian suspects consist of 4 men and 13 women.

According to a statement from the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the arrests were made during a coordinated operation led by AIG Benneth Igweh and CP Ifeanyi Henry Uche, the Commissioner in charge of the NPF National Cybercrimes Centre. The operation targeted a building in the Next Cash and Carry area of Jahi, Abuja, where the suspects were reportedly using advanced computer systems and equipment to facilitate cybercriminal activities.

The operation, which took place on Saturday, November 3, 2024, involved officers from the Nigeria Police Force Zone 7 Command in Abuja and the National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC). The authorities have confirmed that the suspects are currently under investigation, with evidence being meticulously analyzed.

“We are conducting thorough investigations and scientifically analyzing the evidence recovered from the suspects,” the statement said. “Once the investigation is complete, the suspects will be charged in court. Updates on the progress of the investigation will be provided to the public in due course.”

This major operation underscores the Nigeria Police Force's commitment to tackling cybercrime, particularly activities that threaten the country's security and economic stability. Further details on the case and the suspects' involvement in cybercriminal operations are expected to be revealed as the investigation unfolds