The Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) in Lagos has arrested 14 individuals, including four National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and eight students from Gateway Polytechnic, Sapaade, for their alleged involvement in financial fraud operations in Lagos and Ogun states. The arrests highlight the growing challenge of cybercrime among young Nigerians.
Arrest Details
The suspects, aged between 18 and 28, were apprehended on January 15, 2025, during a raid in the Sapaade community of Ogun State. According to PSFU spokesperson Eyitayo Johnson, the operation also led to the arrest of two other individuals of unknown occupation, who identified themselves as an artist and a cobbler.
PSFU Commissioner of Police, Godwin Omodeinde, confirmed the arrests and stated that the suspects were believed to be part of an internet fraud syndicate operating across Lagos and Ogun states.
Dialogue with Student Union Leaders
The arrests prompted student union leaders from various organizations, including the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), the Association of Southern Nigerian Students, and the Gateway Polytechnic Students Union Government (GAPOSA SUG), to meet with CP Omodeinde on January 16, 2025. The meeting sought clarity on the arrests and reinforced the need for collaboration between students and law enforcement.
Omindeinde urged the student leaders to educate their members on the dangers of cybercrime and ensure that individuals involved in misconduct are held accountable. He emphasized the broader implications of cybercrime on Nigeria’s international reputation and economy.
Implications of Nigeria’s FATF Grey Listing
During the meeting, Omodeinde highlighted the impact of cybercrime on Nigeria’s inclusion in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, which poses significant challenges for the country:
- Reduced foreign investment
- Increased transaction costs
- Stricter regulatory scrutiny
- Loss of correspondent banking relationships
- Undermined financial markets
He noted that tackling cybercrime is critical to restoring Nigeria’s financial integrity and improving its global standing.
Commendations and Recommendations
The student union leaders praised CP Omodeinde for his fair approach and willingness to engage with the student community. They expressed their commitment to fostering awareness among their members about the consequences of cybercrime and strengthening relationships with law enforcement.
Similar Cases of Cybercrime Arrests
The arrests echo a similar case in 2023 when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) detained 11 students from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, for alleged involvement in internet fraud. The EFCC stated that the arrests were based on actionable intelligence and occurred in the Oduduwa Estate area of Ile-Ife.
Call to Action
The PSFU emphasized the importance of collective efforts to combat cybercrime. Students, institutions, and the broader community must work together to discourage illicit activities and support Nigeria’s efforts to rebuild its global financial credibility.
Conclusion
The arrests of the NYSC members and students serve as a stark reminder of the rising prevalence of cybercrime among Nigeria’s youth. While law enforcement continues to crack down on these activities, proactive measures such as education, awareness campaigns, and community collaboration are essential in curbing the trend and protecting the nation’s reputation.
