Lagos police have dismantled an illegal internet fraud training center, popularly known as a “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of the state. Officers arrested four suspects believed to be running the operation and rescued six trainees, including a 12-year-old boy.
The Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Tuesday. He revealed that the suspects lured their victims from Anambra State, forced them into online fraud, and seized their earnings.
“During the successful operation, our detectives arrested four Yahoo experts who were operating the illegal training center. The suspects are Chibuike Ihejika, 23; Stanley Ihejika, 22; Obiora Oyediba, 26; and Emmanuel Oyedibe, 25,” Hundeyin said.
The rescued trainees include Okorie Henry, Otoh Chisom, 20; Okeke Kwufrochikwu, 26; Uchenna Obeji, 26; Minachi Udochukwu, 12; and Chinedu Ukachukwu, 23.
Investigations revealed that the trainees were undergoing intensive training in cyber fraud, and their handlers controlled all illicit earnings. “The proceeds from their fraudulent activities were being confiscated by the principal suspects,” the police spokesperson added.
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12-Year-Old Rescued, Receives Medical Care
Authorities say the youngest trainee, Minachi Udochukwu, was physically abused by the fraudsters to force him into crime. “The 12-year-old boy had healing wounds on his body, which were allegedly inflicted by the principal suspect,” Hundeyin disclosed.
Udochukwu has been placed in protective custody and is receiving medical care. Police are working to locate his relatives for proper reintegration.
The police have ordered the owner of the facility to report to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for questioning. Meanwhile, all arrested suspects will face prosecution after investigations are concluded.
The Lagos police chief, Commissioner Olohundare Jimoh, commended officers for their swift action in shutting down the cybercrime syndicate. He reassured residents that the police remain committed to fighting all forms of crime.
“We urge Lagosians to report any suspicious activities in their communities. We will not relent in our fight against internet fraud, also known as ‘yahoo yahoo,’” the commissioner said.
Public Urged to Come Forward
The police have also encouraged victims of the cybercriminals to come forward with complaints.
“Anyone who has been defrauded by this group should visit the SCID in Yaba and file a report,” Hundeyin stated.
In addition, parents and guardians have been urged to closely monitor their children’s activities to prevent them from falling into the hands of fraudsters.
“These criminals are exploiting young people. Parents must be vigilant and ensure their children do not get involved in illegal activities,” the police warned.
The successful operation in Iju highlights the growing concerns over cyber fraud in Nigeria and the need for increased vigilance in tackling internet crimes.