The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested 19 suspected cybercrime fraudsters following a sting operation at Applewood Estate, Orchid Road, Lekki, Lagos State.
The anti-graft agency said the operation targeted individuals suspected of defrauding unsuspecting victims through gift cards, cryptocurrencies and international money transfers while impersonating other people.
The operation was conducted at about 5am on Monday by operatives of the EFCC’s Lagos Directorate 1, who initially arrested 21 suspects and recovered five exotic cars.
According to the commission, the operation followed surveillance and reconnaissance of the suspects’ activities.
In a statement signed by the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the commission said a young woman who allegedly attempted to alert the suspects by making telephone calls was temporarily held, and her phone was confiscated until the operation ended. The phone was subsequently returned to her.
The agency explained that preliminary investigations identified 19 of the 21 arrested individuals as suspects requiring further action, while the other two were released after they were found not implicated.
The EFCC said the 19 suspects would be arraigned in court without delay, reaffirming its commitment to tackling economic and financial crimes and other forms of corruption.
It also urged Nigerians to support its efforts and condemn fraudulent activities that damage the country’s reputation.
“The Sting Operation at Applewood Estate was professionally carried out, with no record of harassment, intimidation or unlawful arrest of anyone. The Commission is open to constructive engagement by well-meaning Nigerians but blackmailers and alarmists will not be allowed to sabotage its mandate,” the statement added.