The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 18 suspects in Ogun State in a sweeping crackdown on cybercrime, uncovering disturbing evidence of international fraud links, including U.S. military and civilian identity cards.
The suspects were apprehended during a sting operation at Prime Garden Hotel, located in Atan-Iju along Idi-Iroko Road, following actionable intelligence received by the EFCC’s Ibadan Zonal Command.
According to a statement by the Commission on Wednesday, one of the arrested individuals is believed to be the mastermind of a large-scale scam in which a victim was reportedly swindled out of N200 million.
During the raid, operatives recovered a red Lexus IS 250, a cache of jewellery, various sums of both local and foreign currencies, laptops, and other digital devices allegedly used in fraudulent activities.
Significantly, investigators also found a U.S. driver’s licence bearing the name Eva Lovia and a U.S. military identification card belonging to one Julian Miguel Arroyo, raising concerns about identity theft and possible cross-border cybercrime networks.
The EFCC added that incriminating documents were seized from other suspects during the operation, and that all arrested individuals will face prosecution after the completion of investigations.
The agency reiterated its commitment to curbing the rising tide of internet fraud and warned that it will continue to pursue all leads in the effort to dismantle cybercrime syndicates operating within and beyond Nigeria.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that Ogun State has remained a hotbed for internet fraud in recent years, with Idi-Iroko and surrounding border areas frequently flagged in anti-corruption operations due to their proximity to exit routes and weak local surveillance systems.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE