The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested four Chinese nationals and 101 Nigerians in connection with a suspected internet fraud operation in a business apartment located in the Gudu area of Abuja. The arrests, made on Thursday, January 9, 2025, were announced by the EFCC through a tweet on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle the following day.
Details of the Arrest
The EFCC revealed that the arrested suspects consisted of 67 males (including four Chinese nationals) and 38 females. They were allegedly involved in an online hotel review job scam that targeted victims and hotels across Europe and other parts of the world.
The EFCC added that the suspects would face legal prosecution once investigations are completed.
“The suspects, comprising 67 males (including four Chinese nationals) and 38 females, were allegedly involved in a hotel review job scam targeting victims and hotels in Europe and other parts of the world. The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigations,” the EFCC said.
EFCC’s Broader Crackdown on Cybercrime
This recent arrest is part of the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to combat internet fraud and related crimes. The commission has been making significant strides in recent months, with several high-profile crackdowns:
- October 2024: Ten individuals were convicted and sentenced to varying jail terms and fines for internet-related offences such as fraud, impersonation, and employment scams.
- December 2024: In its largest single-day crackdown, the EFCC apprehended 792 suspects involved in cryptocurrency and romance scam syndicates in Lagos. Among them were 158 foreigners and 634 Nigerians arrested at a single property.
Internal Reforms and Accountability
The EFCC has also been working to rid its organization of misconduct within its own ranks. In 2024, 27 EFCC officers were dismissed for misconduct and fraudulent activities following internal disciplinary measures.
EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale disclosed that these dismissals were based on recommendations by the EFCC Staff Disciplinary Committee and were ratified by the Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.
“In its quest to enforce integrity and rid its workforce of fraudulent elements, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission dismissed 27 officers in 2024,” Oyewale stated.
The EFCC further confirmed that it is investigating allegations of a $400,000 claim made by an anonymous individual against a Sectional Head within the commission.
Conclusion
The EFCC remains committed to combating internet fraud and corruption while promoting integrity within its workforce. The recent arrests in Abuja signify the commission’s relentless efforts to bring offenders to justice and maintain accountability both externally and internally.
