EFCC Arrests 120 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Lagos...Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 120 individuals in Lagos State on suspicion of being involved in internet fraud. The operation, carried out by the EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate, took place on May 19, 2025, in a series of coordinated raids aimed at tackling the growing issue of cybercrime in the region.
The arrested suspects, 95 males and 25 females, were reportedly targeted after weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering that linked them to various fraudulent activities. According to a statement released by the commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the operation was part of the EFCC’s continued commitment to combat cybercrime and other financial crimes that threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s financial systems.
During the raids, the EFCC recovered several luxury vehicles, including high-end sports cars, as well as expensive jewellery, laptops, smartphones, and various documents believed to contain evidence of fraudulent activities. These materials are being examined by the commission as part of the ongoing investigation. The agency has confirmed that the suspects are currently being interrogated, and once investigations are completed, they will be charged in court.
This latest operation by the EFCC is part of the agency’s broader efforts to crack down on internet fraudsters who continue to exploit technology for illicit gains. Cybercrime has become a growing concern in Nigeria, with many individuals engaging in various fraudulent schemes, including romance scams, phishing, identity theft, and other online frauds. In recent years, the EFCC has ramped up its efforts to target individuals and syndicates involved in these activities, working closely with other law enforcement agencies both locally and internationally to stem the tide of cybercrime.
The EFCC has been particularly vocal about the damaging effects of internet fraud on the nation’s reputation, economy, and the trust in its financial systems. Internet fraud not only causes financial losses to individuals and businesses but also negatively impacts Nigeria’s standing on the global stage, as the country is often linked to online scams and fraudulent activities. By taking swift action against suspected fraudsters, the EFCC hopes to send a strong message that cybercrime will not be tolerated and that those involved will face the full force of the law.
In recent years, the commission has conducted several high-profile operations that have resulted in the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in internet fraud. These operations have targeted both low-level scammers and larger syndicates involved in organized cybercrime. The EFCC continues to be proactive in identifying new methods and tools used by fraudsters, ensuring that their strategies evolve in tandem with the changing landscape of cybercrime.
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The commission also emphasized the importance of public awareness in combating internet fraud. It urged Nigerians to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities they may encounter online. The EFCC has stressed the importance of using safe and secure online practices and avoiding engagement with any parties that seem to be operating outside of established legal frameworks.
As the investigation continues, the EFCC has reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice for all victims of cybercrime, while ensuring that those responsible for defrauding innocent citizens are held accountable for their actions. The commission’s relentless efforts in investigating and prosecuting internet fraudsters are seen as vital steps in curbing the alarming rate of cybercrime in the country.
The latest arrests in Lagos represent a significant development in the EFCC’s ongoing fight against financial fraud. By holding individuals accountable for their involvement in internet fraud, the EFCC hopes to serve as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar criminal activities. This operation underscores the importance of maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that Nigeria’s financial and online spaces remain secure and trustworthy for all users.
As the EFCC continues its work to tackle internet fraud, its operations are expected to intensify, with more raids and arrests anticipated in the coming months. The commission’s efforts are critical not only to curbing financial crime but also to restoring the confidence of Nigerians in the security of their online activities.
