The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intensified its clampdown on cybercrime with the arrest of 17 suspected internet fraudsters in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State. Operatives from the Uyo Zonal Directorate carried out a coordinated sting operation between April 11 and 14, 2025, targeting key hotspots across the city.
The intelligence-led operation spanned multiple locations including Use-Offot Nwaniba, Urua Ekpa, Ring Road 3, Ikot Ekpene Road, Calabar-Itu Road, and the Mechanic Village axis. The suspects, aged between 20 and 32, were apprehended in connection with various forms of internet-related criminal activity.
During the raid, EFCC officials recovered an assortment of items believed to be proceeds of cybercrime. These include 26 high-end smartphones, three laptop computers, and four luxury vehicles: a white Lexus IS 250 (ABJ-739AV), a metallic grey Toyota Corolla (KTE-687EP), a black Lexus RX 350 (BWR-36LN), and a black Mercedes-Benz GLE (FST-863JS).
Read Also: EFCC secures conviction of 30 internet fraudsters in Ibadan
The arrests have sparked widespread attention across social media, with many Nigerians applauding the EFCC’s renewed commitment to combating internet fraud, commonly known as “Yahoo Yahoo.” The anti-graft agency has confirmed that the suspects will be formally charged in court as soon as investigations are concluded.
As the crackdown continues, the agency has reiterated its warning to internet fraudsters that it is only a matter of time before the law catches up with them.
