The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 43 individuals suspected of internet fraud following a coordinated operation in Toto area of Nasarawa State on Friday, May 30, 2025.

According to a statement shared on the Commission's official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, the arrests were based on "actionable intelligence which linked them to fraudulent internet activities."

During the operation, EFCC operatives recovered numerous electronic devices and other items believed to be proceeds or tools of cybercrime. The seized items include 64 mobile phones (primarily high-end brands such as iPhones and Samsung models), an iPad, four laptop computers, and five motorcycles.

Investigation Ongoing

The anti-graft agency stated that investigations are currently underway to determine the full extent of the suspects' involvement in cybercrime networks. The Commission assured that once investigations are completed, the individuals in custody will be formally charged in court.

This operation represents part of the EFCC's ongoing efforts to combat the rising tide of internet-related fraud in Nigeria, which has damaged the country's international reputation and affected legitimate online businesses.

The Commission has intensified its crackdown on cybercrime in recent months, with similar operations conducted in various states across the country. Just recently, the EFCC arrested 78 suspected internet fraudsters across Nasarawa, Abia, and Kano states in separate operations.

Internet fraud, commonly known as "yahoo yahoo" in Nigeria, has become a significant concern for law enforcement agencies, with young people increasingly being lured into the illegal activity by promises of quick wealth.

The EFCC continues to advise Nigerian youth to engage in legitimate means of livelihood and warns that the Commission will not relent in its efforts to bring perpetrators of cybercrime to justice.