Lagos: Police uncover illegal cybercrime training hub, arrest ten
The Lagos State Police Command has dismantled an illegal cybercrime training centre, arresting 10 individuals involved in internet fraud, including four suspected masterminds and six trainees.
Police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the operation, stating that detectives raided the facility, commonly referred to as a “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of Lagos.
Among those arrested were the alleged ringleaders: Chibuike Ihejika, 23; Stanley Ihejika, 22; Obiora Oyediba, 26; and Emmanuel Oyedibe, 25. Investigations revealed they had been mentoring young recruits in online fraud schemes.
The trainees, who were reportedly lured from Anambra State, include Okorie Henry, Otoh Chisom, 20; Okeke Kwufrochikwu, 26; Uchenna Obeji, 26; Minachi Udochukwu, 12; and Chinedu Ukachukwu, 23. The suspects allegedly engaged in financial scams under the strict supervision of their trainers, who also controlled the proceeds of their fraudulent activities.
A particularly shocking aspect of the case was the presence of a 12-year-old among the trainees. Authorities disclosed that the boy, Minachi Udochukwu, suffered physical abuse at the hands of the suspects, who reportedly forced him into cybercrime. He is currently receiving medical attention and remains in protective custody while efforts are made to reunite him with his family.
The suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba, for further investigations and prosecution. Police also launched a manhunt for the owner of the facility and other financiers behind the scheme.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh praised the officers for their swift action, reaffirming the command’s commitment to cracking down on cyber fraud. He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children’s activities to prevent them from being exploited by criminal networks.
Meanwhile, the police have called on victims of the syndicate’s fraudulent activities to report to SCID, Yaba, to aid ongoing investigations.
