Police in Lagos arrest three suspects linked to cybercrime, forgery, and cultism
Three people have been detained by the Nigeria Police Force Zone 2 Command in Onikan, Lagos, on suspicion of engaging in criminal conspiracy, computer fraud, forgery, impersonation, and cult-related activities.
In a statement sent to reporters on Thursday, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Olohundare Jimoh verified the arrests.
The operation was the outcome of persistent intelligence-led efforts to combat fraud and cybercrime in Lagos and Ogun states, according to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Gbenga Afolayan.
Following reliable information obtained by the Zonal Intelligence Department, which concentrated on the Lekki-Ajah corridor, the arrests were made on January 7, 2025.
Jimoh claims that the suspects, who are 24, 33, and 36 years old, each had a specific function inside a well-organised cybercrime network.
The 24-year-old was first stopped while operating a Porsche on Chevron Drive. Later on, he acknowledged committing cybercrime. The other two suspects were apprehended after a follow-up search at his home, according to Jimoh.
According to investigations, the suspects planned a variety of fraudulent activities, such as account manipulation, cryptocurrency fraud, and romance scams.
According to the AIG, the 33-year-old handled illegal financial transactions, the 24-year-old oversaw cyber fraud activities and set up false accounts, and the 36-year-old carried out cryptocurrency schemes using websites including Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, and online banking.
The cops found a number of objects connected to illegal conduct during the operation. Jimoh enumerated the exhibits that were seized as follows:
Nine iPhones, two tablets, one Apple MacBook, and three HP PCs were utilised in fraudulent activities.
Six passports from other countries
Three dealer plate numbers and Lagos State license plates (LSR 235 JM, FKJ 558 JK)
A toy rifle, a tiny printer, military camouflage clothing, and 98 suspected counterfeit $100 notes
Suspected Indian hemp and associated smoking accessories
The AIG stated that in order to confirm the legitimacy of the fake money and look into the illegal narcotics found, investigations are still underway in cooperation with pertinent agencies.
He reaffirmed that attempts are underway to capture more members of the criminal network and promised that the suspects would face charges after the investigation was finished.
Jimoh continued, “The command is still dedicated to bolstering efforts against fraud, cybercrime, and related criminal activities within our jurisdiction.”
