EFCC arrests 18 suspected internet fraudsters in Ogun, recovers fake U.S. IDs

Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 18 people suspected of internet fraud at a hotel in Ogun State.

The suspects were caught at Prime Garden Hotel, Atun-iju, along Idi-Iroko Road, following intelligence linking the location to online scams. Among them is a key suspect accused of defrauding someone of N200 million. The EFCC seized a red Lexus IS 250, jewellery, cash in local and foreign currencies, a U.S. driver’s licence, and a U.S. military ID during the raid. Other items recovered include laptops, vehicles, and documents used for fraud.

This bust adds to a rising number of cybercrime arrests in Nigeria. In June, 38 suspects were arrested in Enugu, and in April, 24 people were caught in Lagos for scams involving fake profiles and identity theft targeting foreigners. The EFCC has warned hospitality businesses to avoid hosting fraudsters and promised ongoing operations to fight cybercrime.

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede stressed the agency’s zero-tolerance policy, saying cybercriminals harm Nigeria’s reputation and must be held accountable.

The arrests show the government’s efforts to curb “Yahoo Yahoo” fraud, which remains a major challenge for Nigeria’s digital economy and international image.
The suspects will be charged in court after investigations conclude.