The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered and shut down an illegal internet fraud training centre, commonly referred to as “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of the state.
The spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin, announced on Tuesday that four key suspects had been arrested along with six trainees in connection with the illegal internet fraud training center.
Among the trainees was a 12-year-old boy identified as Minachi Udochukwu. Hundeyin stated that initial investigations revealed the principal suspects lured the trainees from Anambra State, involved them in cyber fraud, and seized their earnings.
Part of the statement reads: “During the successful operation, police detectives apprehended four individuals running the illicit training centre: Chibuike Ihejika, 23; Stanley Ihejika, 22; Obiora Oyediba, 26; and Emmanuel Oyedibe, 25.
“The six trainees undergoing cybercrime and fraud training include Okorie Henry, Otoh Chisom, 20; Okeke Kwufrochikwu, 26; Uchenna Obeji, 26; Minachi Udochukwu, 12; and Chinedu Ukachukwu, 23.
“Preliminary investigations confirm that the main suspects recruited the trainees from Anambra State, initiated them into internet fraud, and confiscated the proceeds of their illegal activities.”
The police have issued a directive for the facility owner to surrender at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). Authorities assured that all suspects would face prosecution upon the completion of the investigation.
The statement further disclosed that Udochukwu was found with healing injury marks, allegedly inflicted on him during training. He has been placed in protective custody and is receiving medical care until he can be reunited with his family.
“In adherence to due process, the underage suspect, Minachi Udochukwu, who had visible healing injuries allegedly inflicted by the principal suspect to force his involvement in criminal activities, is being provided medical attention and kept in protective custody until his relatives are identified and reunited with him,” Hundeyin stated.
The police also urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities to prevent them from being exploited or recruited into criminal activities.
Additionally, members of the public who may have fallen victim to the syndicate’s fraudulent activities were encouraged to report their complaints at the SCID in Yaba.
Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, commended the officers for their dedication and professionalism in executing the operation.
“CP Jimoh reassures Lagos residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating all forms of crime, including cyber fraud, commonly known as ‘Yahoo.’ He encourages residents to report any suspicious activity or incident to the police for swift action,” the statement concluded.
