Police Cybercrime Unit Recover N8.8bn, Arrest 751 Suspects In 2024
The Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Unit has recovered more than N8.8 billion from cyber criminals in 2024, during which 751 of them were arrested across the country.
In addition to the N8.8 billion, the Unit also recovered 15,237.91 USDT, and $84,000 from the criminals.
“These significant amounts have been restituted to the victims of cybercrime, reaffirming the commitment of the Force to protecting citizens and ensuring justice for those affected by fraudulent activities,” ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer said in a statement.
“Similarly, in the past year, the Cybercrime Unit has actively engaged in strategic operations, resulting in the arrests and prosecutions of over 751 individuals involved in cybercrime.
“The unit has successfully recovered a total of 685 devices that were used in these nefarious activities, which include 467 mobile phones, 137 laptops and computers, 46 routers, 4 servers, 1 drone, and 4 Starlink devices.
“Additionally, the operations led to the confiscation of 16 houses, 39 plots of land, 14 land documents, and 26 vehicles, further dismantling the infrastructure supporting cybercriminal activities,” he added.
According to Adejobi, the performance of the unit was recognised by the INTERPOL Cybercrime Directorate based in Singapore, as the Best Cybercrime Unit in Africa for 2024.
“These achievements reflects the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force to fighting cybercrime and enhancing the safety of citizens in the digital space.”
He assured that the Police will remain committed to combating cyber threats by staying steps ahead of the cybercriminals.
“Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and exercise caution when sharing sensitive data or interacting with unfamiliar online entities. Cultivating a culture of cyber awareness and promoting responsible online behavior are essential components in fortifying the defences against cyber threats.”
Meanwhile, four suspects, Douglass Victor, Egbo Efe Martins, Lucky Adesunloye, and Ndifreke Joseph Moody have been arrested in connection with alleged cyber-related offences.
