EFCC Bursts Yahoo Academy in FCT, Arrests 31 Suspects in Cybercrime Crackdown
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raided a suspected “Yahoo academy” in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), arresting 31 individuals in what officials described as a major operation against cybercrime.
According to a statement released by the anti-graft agency, the suspects were apprehended at a location in Abuja believed to be operating as a training hub for internet fraud activities. The EFCC said the operation followed credible intelligence linking the premises to organized cybercrime.
Operatives reportedly stormed the facility in the early hours of the day, leading to the arrest of 31 suspects, including alleged trainers and trainees. Authorities said items recovered during the raid include laptops, mobile phones, and other electronic devices suspected to have been used in fraudulent activities.
The EFCC described a “Yahoo academy” as a setup where individuals are allegedly trained in various forms of internet fraud, including phishing, identity theft, and romance scams. The agency reiterated its commitment to dismantling such networks and prosecuting those involved.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects were undergoing training on how to defraud victims, both within Nigeria and internationally. The agency noted that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The EFCC has intensified its crackdown on internet fraud in recent years, particularly in Abuja and other major cities. Officials say the rise in cybercrime has negatively impacted Nigeria’s global image and undermined legitimate digital innovation efforts.
Cybercrime remains a major concern for law enforcement agencies, with authorities emphasizing the need for sustained intelligence gathering and public cooperation to tackle the menace. The commission also urged young Nigerians to pursue legitimate means of livelihood instead of engaging in fraudulent schemes.
Legal experts note that those found guilty of cybercrime offenses under Nigerian law may face significant penalties, including imprisonment and forfeiture of assets linked to criminal proceeds.
The agency reaffirmed that combating financial crimes and protecting Nigeria’s economic integrity remain central to its mandate. It further encouraged members of the public to report suspicious online activities and fraudulent schemes.
As investigations continue, the EFCC assured that due process will be followed and that the suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The raid marks another significant step in ongoing efforts to curb internet fraud and dismantle networks allegedly operating under the guise of “Yahoo academies” in the Federal Capital Territory.
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