The EFCC raided nightclubs in Akure, Ondo State, arresting 127 suspected internet fraudsters, including a groom-to-be, at a "Yahoo Party." The operation, based on detailed intelligence, highlights the agency's ongoing efforts to combat internet fraud in Nigeria.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) revealed that its operatives conducted a raid on nightclubs in Akure, Ondo State, on Saturday. During the operation, 127 suspected internet fraudsters were apprehended. According to the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the raid was carried out after the agency received intelligence about a planned event known as a "Yahoo Party."
Contrary to earlier reports, Oyewale clarified that no soldiers were injured during the operation. He emphasized that those arrested are currently in the agency's custody in Ibadan and are undergoing profiling.
"The alleged internet fraudsters were arrested in an early morning sting operation at a 'Yahoo Party' held simultaneously at Signature and Abah Clubs on Saturday, June 8, 2024, in Akure, Ondo State," Oyewale stated. He added that the party was initially scheduled for Wednesday but was rescheduled to Saturday when the suspects realized the EFCC was aware of their plans.
Among the arrested were a groom-to-be and his friend, whose arrest was previously reported. Oyewale noted that the EFCC had conducted a thorough operation, monitoring the suspects closely before making the arrests. He assured that the suspects would be charged in court once the investigations are concluded.
The EFCC's action is part of a broader effort to crack down on internet fraud, commonly known as "Yahoo Yahoo" in Nigeria. The agency has been increasingly active in targeting such activities, aiming to dismantle networks of fraudsters across the country. This latest operation highlights the EFCC's commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting the public from fraudulent schemes.
The raid has drawn significant attention and sparked discussions on social media about the aggressive tactics used by the EFCC and the implications for those wrongly caught up in such operations. However, the EFCC maintains that its actions are necessary to curb the growing menace of internet fraud in Nigeria.
