In a major international crackdown on cybercrime, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), in collaboration with the National Police Agency of Japan (NPA), has intensified efforts to combat online fraud. The strengthened partnership has already yielded significant results, with the recent arrest of 11 suspects involved in cyber-related crimes, including identity theft, romance scams, and computer-related fraud targeting Japanese victims.
At a press briefing held at the NPF National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), officials highlighted the effectiveness of the joint operation. The investigation, launched on April 3, 2024, followed reports from Nigeria’s National Central Bureau and NCB Tokyo, linking 13 cybercrime suspects operating from Nigeria to multiple fraud cases.
According to findings, the criminals primarily used social media platforms, particularly Instagram, to lure unsuspecting victims into fraudulent romantic relationships. Victims were manipulated into transferring money via wire transactions, which was later converted into cryptocurrency and funneled through various digital wallets in Nigeria.
So far, investigators have recovered $33,320, with further efforts underway to reclaim additional stolen funds and dismantle the syndicate.
Reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting lives and property, Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi emphasized the NPF’s resolve to leverage technology and international cooperation to combat cybercrime and ensure public safety.
The NPF urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious online activities as authorities continue to work tirelessly to disrupt cybercriminal networks.
