The Nigeria Police Force, through its dedicated National Cybercrime Centre (NCCC), has successfully dismantled a ingenious cyber fraud ring that targeted the WhatsApp accounts of numerous citizens, including high-profile individuals.
The criminals exploited these hijacked accounts to deceive and defraud the victims’ contacts, resulting in significant financial losses.
This breakthrough came after a formal complaint was lodged on April 14, 2025, prompting a rapid and coordinated response from the NCCC’s cyber intelligence unit.
Employing a combination of advanced digital forensics and meticulous investigative techniques, the team uncovered a well-orchestrated operation relying heavily on mobile device compromises and social engineering to execute their schemes.
Speaking to the press, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force’s spokesperson, confirmed the arrest of a primary suspect linked to the fraud. The suspect, identified as Onajite Okoro, a male resident of Warri in Delta State, admitted involvement and cooperation with an accomplice known only as “Chief Mallam Zaki,” whom he reportedly connected with via Facebook. Okoro’s role included registering multiple SIM cards tied to various bank accounts and facilitating unauthorized transfers of stolen funds.
Subsequent forensic examination of his devices and financial records provided solid proof of his participation in the fraudulent activities. However, investigations indicate that other members of the syndicate remain at large, and efforts to apprehend them are ongoing.
Through the comprehensive tracing of the fraudulent transactions, the police managed to freeze millions of naira held across several Nigerian banks, preventing further illicit financial movement.
ACP Adejobi stated that the investigation is still active, with the NPF-NCCC determined to bring all perpetrators to justice and finalize prosecution procedures swiftly.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of crime, particularly those involving financial and cyber elements.
He emphasized the Force’s commitment to counter evolving digital threats decisively and highlighted ongoing collaboration with financial institutions and other stakeholders to deepen the investigation.
In light of these events, citizens are strongly advised to enhance their cybersecurity practices. Recommendations include safeguarding communication channels, employing multi-factor authentication, and remaining vigilant when receiving messages—even from known contacts—to detect and avoid potential scams.
The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation’s cyberspace and ensure that all individuals involved in cybercrime, irrespective of their status or influence, are held accountable under the law.