The Lagos State Police Command has successfully dismantled an illegal cybercrime training center, commonly referred to as a “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of Lagos. The raid, which took place recently, resulted in the arrest of four alleged fraud experts running the facility, as well as six trainees learning cyber fraud.
According to Benjamin Hundeyin, Police Public Relations Officer Lagos State Command, the four principal suspects, Chibuike Ihejika (23), Stanley Ihejika (22), Obiora Oyediba (26), and Emmanuel Oyedibe (25), were arrested for running the illegal training center. The six trainees, identified as Okorie Henry, Otoh Chisom (20), Okeke Kwufrochikwu (26), Uchenna Obeji (26), Minachi Udochukwu (12), and Chinedu Ukachukwu (23), were also apprehended.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the principal suspects recruited trainees from Anambra State, forcing them into internet fraud while seizing the proceeds of their crimes. The suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba, for further discreet investigation and prosecution.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the sponsors who financed the trainees’ enrollment in the school, as well as the owner of the facility where the illegal activities took place. The owner of the facility has been warned to turn himself in immediately.
The Lagos State Police Command has assured that all suspects will be charged to court for prosecution upon the conclusion of the investigation. In line with due process, the underage suspect, Minachi Ugochukwu, 12, is being given medical attention and kept in protective custody until his relatives are identified and reunited with him.
Parents and guardians have been advised to monitor the activities of their children and wards to prevent them from being exploited or compelled into criminal activities. Members of the public who have fallen victim to the fraudulent activities of this criminal syndicate are encouraged to come forward to the SCID, Yaba, with their complaints.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has commended the police personnel involved in the operation for their dedication and professionalism. He assures all Lagosians that the Command remains resolute and committed to combating all forms of crimes and criminalities, including cybercrime.
Cybercrime, known in Nigeria as “yahoo-yahoo,” is a flourishing industry that attracts many young people who are looking for jobs in a country with a high unemployment rate. The Lagos State Police Command’s efforts to dismantle this illegal training center are a step in the right direction towards combating cybercrime in Nigeria.
The police have urged residents to report any suspicious activity or incident to the Police in their localities for prompt action. As the investigation continues, it is clear that the Lagos State Police Command is committed to tackling cybercrime and ensuring that those involved are brought to justice.
