Police Arrest 130 Suspects, Including 113 Foreign Nationals, in Major Cybercrime Bust

The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended 130 suspects, including 113 foreign nationals, in a major crackdown on cybercrime in Abuja. The suspects, hailing primarily from China and Malaysia, are accused of conducting high-level cybercriminal activities and hacking operations that threaten national security. The arrests took place on Saturday, November 3, in a raid coordinated by Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 7, AIG Benneth Igweh, in collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC).

Police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi shared details of the operation in a statement on Sunday, revealing that the suspects included 87 men and 26 women of foreign origin, along with 17 Nigerians (4 males and 13 females). The raid occurred at a building near the Next Cash and Carry area in Jahi, a district in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

“The Nigeria Police Force has arrested 130 suspects, comprising 113 foreign nationals, primarily of Chinese and Malaysian origin, and their 17 Nigerian collaborators, for their alleged involvement in high-level cybercrimes, hacking, and activities that threaten national security,” Adejobi said.

He explained that the operation was part of a strategic response to combat cyber threats in Nigeria. “The suspects were reportedly using computers and other sophisticated devices to facilitate criminal activities,” Adejobi added, noting that the police are thoroughly investigating the matter.

According to Adejobi, exhibits recovered from the site are currently under scientific analysis to aid in the investigation. “We are investigating the matter and scientifically analyzing the exhibits recovered from them,” he stated. The analysis is expected to help authorities uncover more details about the suspects’ activities, including the extent of their cyber operations and potential connections to larger criminal networks.

He confirmed that the suspects would be charged in court after the investigations are complete. “The suspects will be charged in court upon the conclusion of our investigations,” Adejobi assured. He also promised to keep the public informed about the progress of the case, highlighting the police’s commitment to transparency and public safety.

The operation highlights the Nigeria Police Force’s intensified efforts to tackle cybercrime amid growing concerns about cybersecurity threats. The rise in cybercrimes has prompted law enforcement agencies to strengthen surveillance and engage in collaborative actions with cybercrime experts to curb illegal activities in the digital space.

Adejobi’s statement reassured citizens of the Nigeria Police Force’s resolve to protect the nation from cybercriminals. He emphasized that the police are taking every necessary step to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.