EFCC Strikes in Kwara: 17 Suspected Internet Fraudsters Nabbed in Ilorin, Ifelodun Raids

In a major crackdown on cybercrime, operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 17 suspected internet fraudsters during coordinated sting operations across Ilorin and Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The operation, which took place in the early hours of Tuesday, followed weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering by EFCC agents, targeting individuals believed to be deeply involved in romance scams, fraudulent investment schemes, and identity theft.

According to sources within the EFCC, the suspects were apprehended at multiple hideouts where they were allegedly operating with laptops, smartphones, and SIM cards linked to fraudulent activities. Items recovered during the raid include several luxury vehicles, over a dozen laptops, and incriminating digital footprints pointing to foreign victims.

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“The arrest is part of our renewed effort to rid Kwara of internet fraud and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s image abroad,” said a senior EFCC official who asked not to be named. “We are sending a clear message that there is no hiding place for cybercriminals in this zone.”

The 17 suspects are currently in EFCC custody and undergoing profiling and interrogation. Upon the conclusion of investigations, those found culpable will be charged to court.

Residents in the affected areas praised the swift operation, describing it as long overdue. Some local youth leaders have also called for rehabilitation programs to prevent others from falling into cybercrime out of desperation.

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This arrest is the latest in a string of anti-fraud operations across Nigeria, as the EFCC intensifies its nationwide campaign against internet-related crimes.