The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a 35-year-old “young billionaire,” Hyginus Nkwocha, in Abuja for alleged involvement in internet fraud and money laundering. The arrest, which took place at Ever Green Estate, near Millennium Estate in Lugbe, Abuja, marks another milestone in the EFCC’s ongoing battle against financial crimes in Nigeria.
Acting on credible intelligence, EFCC operatives swooped in on Nkwocha, uncovering a wealth of luxurious items believed to be proceeds of his illicit activities. Among the seized assets were a staggering collection of high-end gadgets and luxury vehicles, including:
– $2,200 in cash
– An iPhone 15 Pro Max
– A Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
– A Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
– An iPhone 13 Pro Max
– A MacBook
– A gold chain and pendant
– A gold bracelet
– A gold neck chain
In addition to these items, the EFCC also confiscated three luxury cars: a Mercedes Benz ML 350, a Chevrolet Camaro and a Mustang.
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The anti-graft agency’s investigation extended beyond Abuja, leading to the recovery of multiple properties linked to Nkwocha in Lagos. These include:
– Cookies Court 2 at Ocean Palm Estate, Ajah, Lagos
– Unit C8 at Lugbe Airport Road, Abuja
– Cookies Court 2 on 2nd Avenue, Ocean Palm Estate, Ogombo, Lagos State
The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the arrest and asset seizures, noting that the operation is part of the commission’s intensified efforts to curb the surge of internet fraud and money laundering across Nigeria.
“The suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded,” Oyewale stated, underscoring the EFCC’s commitment to bringing cybercriminals to justice.
Nkwocha’s arrest highlights the growing trend of young, affluent individuals engaging in sophisticated cyber fraud schemes, often amassing immense wealth that is laundered through lavish purchases and real estate investments. The EFCC’s approach, which includes real-time intelligence gathering and swift asset forfeiture, aims to dismantle these criminal networks and send a strong message to would-be fraudsters.
