In a significant step towards curbing cybercrime, Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 105 individuals, including four Chinese nationals, in connection with an alleged internet fraud operation targeting hotels in Europe and beyond. The arrests were made during a raid on an apartment in Abuja, the nation’s capital, according to a statement from EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale.
The suspects are accused of running a fraudulent scheme disguised as a “hotel review job,” which investigators say was used to defraud victims on a global scale. Details about the operation suggest that the group exploited fake opportunities to entice unsuspecting individuals into their scam.
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“All suspects will face trial after investigations are concluded,” Oyewale assured. The EFCC has emphasized its commitment to bringing those involved in cybercrime and international fraud networks to justice.
This operation follows a broader crackdown on cybercrime last month, where nearly 800 individuals, including 148 Chinese and 40 Filipino nationals, were arrested for their involvement in a separate global fraud scheme. That operation reportedly used romance scams to lure victims into fake cryptocurrency investment platforms.
The recent arrests highlight Nigeria’s renewed focus on tackling cybercrime and restoring its international reputation, which has often been marred by high-profile cases of internet fraud. Authorities believe these actions send a strong message about the country’s determination to dismantle sophisticated fraud networks that harm individuals and businesses worldwide.
As investigations continue, the EFCC reiterated its call for vigilance and cooperation from the public in identifying and reporting suspicious activities linked to cybercrime.
