EFCC Arrests 74 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Massive Port Harcourt Raid

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Port Harcourt Zonal Command, have successfully carried out a massive crackdown on internet fraud, arresting 74 suspected fraudsters in various locations across Port Harcourt.

The operation took place in the early hours of Thursday, July 21, 2022, and was part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on online financial crimes that have increasingly targeted unsuspecting Nigerians and foreign nationals alike. Internet fraud, often referred to as “Yahoo Yahoo” in Nigeria, has become a growing concern for both local authorities and international partners.

READ MORE: Judge Withdraws from EFCC Case Against Former Attorney General Abubakar Malami

The Arrest Operation

According to sources within the EFCC, intelligence-led investigations over several months identified multiple individuals allegedly involved in fraudulent online activities. These investigations revealed networks of fraudsters operating across Port Harcourt, using sophisticated techniques such as phishing, social engineering, and ATM scams to defraud unsuspecting victims.

In the raid, 48 of the 74 suspects were found in possession of incriminating items, which included laptops, mobile phones, ATM cards, and other tools commonly used for internet fraud. The suspects were apprehended at different locations in the city, demonstrating the widespread nature of the alleged criminal network.

Suspects and Profiles

The EFCC has confirmed that the suspects range in age and background. Many are young adults, some of whom are university graduates, highlighting the disturbing trend of highly educated individuals turning to online fraud. Among those arrested were individuals who allegedly orchestrated multi-million-naira scams targeting both domestic and international victims.

Some of the notable suspects include:

Promise Sunday, Ukala Goldman, Isaac Golden, Peter Ikechukwu

Bankole Olamide, John Chiemela, Thomas Martins, Dr. Victor

Emmanuel Owuma, Emmanuel Sekun, Philip Abaku, Emmanuel Egwuanumku

Thompson Charles Lekia, Ken Anelele Marvel, Kelechi Prince, Ugochukwu Ukaigwe

Ake John, Victor Madu, Moses Jubril Akrah, Jonathan Jeffery

Noble Lot, Success Umukoro, Precious Michael, Christabel Enoch

Other suspects include Desmond Ogu, Louis Abbas, Donaldson Ugbo, Kelvin Dickson, Henry Messiah, Godwin Egwelike, Timinepre Esuku, Mathew Kelvin, Alfred Friday, Nyderson Mufisa Nwogu, Boyle Edward, Ifeanyi Elum, Richard Welle Chikodi, Ogu Raymond, Tamunoturoko Briggs, Kenedy Patrick, Shadrach Savior, King Nwonuma, Chisom Umah, Joseph Effiong, Kelvin Ifeanyi, Birabil Lessi Junior Goodness, George Nnamdi, and Doro Precious.

This extensive list demonstrates the scope of the EFCC’s operation and serves as a warning to other online fraud networks operating across the country.

Items Recovered

The EFCC’s Port Harcourt command confirmed that a variety of items were recovered during the raid, further strengthening the evidence against the suspects. Some of the recovered items include:

Five exotic cars, believed to have been purchased with proceeds from fraudulent activities

Multiple laptops and desktop computers, used to carry out online scams

Various smartphones, including high-end models from popular brands

ATM cards, bank statements, and identity documents, linking suspects to their alleged crimes 

The EFCC also revealed that some of the items recovered indicate that the suspects were engaged in organized fraud operations, using both local and international networks to commit cybercrime.

The Growing Threat of Internet Fraud

Internet fraud has emerged as one of the most significant financial crime challenges in Nigeria. The sophistication of online scams has grown exponentially over the years, targeting both individual citizens and corporate entities. Fraudsters employ a variety of tactics, including phishing emails, social media scams, fake online shops, and romance scams to defraud unsuspecting victims.

The EFCC has repeatedly stressed that internet fraud is not just a criminal offense—it also damages Nigeria’s international reputation and discourages foreign investment. In addition, victims often face significant financial losses, making the fight against internet fraud a top priority for both law enforcement and policymakers.

EFCC’s Ongoing Efforts

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has intensified its efforts to curb internet fraud across Nigeria. This includes:

Regular raids and arrests: Like the recent operation in Port Harcourt, targeting known fraudsters.

Public awareness campaigns: Educating Nigerians about the dangers of online scams.

Collaboration with banks: Identifying suspicious transactions linked to fraud.

International cooperation: Working with agencies worldwide to track and prosecute cybercriminals operating across borders.

These measures are designed not only to punish offenders but also to deter others from engaging in internet fraud.

Legal Proceedings and Next Steps

Following the arrests, the EFCC stated that the suspects are undergoing further investigation. Once all evidence is collated, the suspects will be formally charged to court.

The EFCC emphasized that due process will be followed and that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Investigators are also examining whether the suspects are part of a larger international fraud network, which could lead to further arrests and prosecutions.

Public outcry 

The arrests have been met with widespread attention on social media, with many Nigerians praising the EFCC’s efforts in tackling internet fraud. Commentators noted that while the operation demonstrates the commission’s effectiveness, it also underscores the persistent challenges posed by cybercrime in the country.

Social media users highlighted the need for increased digital literacy and awareness to prevent potential victims from falling prey to fraudsters.