In a major breakthrough in the war against cybercrime, the Nigeria Police Force’s National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) has busted a highly sophisticated scam syndicate that specialized in hijacking WhatsApp accounts of influential Nigerians to defraud unsuspecting victims. Millions of naira were recovered and one of the key masterminds is now in custody.
The operation, sparked by a formal complaint lodged on April 14, 2025, was unveiled on Wednesday by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi. The police described the syndicate as “highly coordinated and tech-savvy,” with operations spanning multiple states and involving strategic manipulation of digital platforms.
Utilizing cutting-edge cyber forensics, real-time intelligence gathering, and deep surveillance techniques, the NPF-NCCC cyber intelligence team uncovered a web of deceit powered by social engineering tactics and mobile platform compromise. The criminals allegedly took over WhatsApp accounts belonging to high-profile individuals, including government officials, celebrities, and business magnates, and then posed as them to deceive their contacts into transferring funds.
During the sting operation, investigators traced illicit financial flows across several Nigerian banks. Millions of naira linked to the fraudulent activities were subsequently frozen, effectively crippling the syndicate’s financial lifeline.
One of the key suspects, Onajite Okoro, was apprehended in Warri, Delta State. According to police sources, Okoro played a pivotal role in the fraudulent network by acquiring and registering multiple SIM cards, linking them to various bank accounts, and facilitating the movement of stolen funds.
In a chilling confession, Okoro revealed that he was working alongside a shadowy figure identified as “Chief Mallam Zaki”, whom he had connected with on Facebook. This revelation underscores the growing nexus between social media and cybercrime syndicates.
“Further forensic analysis of Okoro’s seized digital equipment and financial records provided damning evidence of his extensive involvement,” the statement read. “He has cooperated with investigators, shedding light on the inner workings of the criminal ring.”
The police added that more members of the syndicate have been identified and are currently being tracked. Law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects and ensure they face the full wrath of the law.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, lauded the NPF-NCCC for their diligence and reaffirmed the Force’s unwavering commitment to eradicating cybercrime in Nigeria.
“Our message is clear: the Nigeria Police Force has zero tolerance for digital criminality. We are constantly evolving to counter emerging cyber threats and will pursue all perpetrators relentlessly until justice is served,” Egbetokun declared.
He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and adopt safer digital habits, including the use of multi-factor authentication, avoiding suspicious links, and verifying unusual requests—even from familiar sources.
“The Nigeria Police Force is dedicated to safeguarding Nigeria’s digital landscape. Cybercriminals, regardless of who they target or where they operate from, will be hunted down and brought to justice,” the statement concluded.
As the digital age advances, this case serves as a powerful reminder that cybercrime is real—and the long arm of the law is now longer and smarter than ever.
PIONEER NEWS 