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EFCC Strikes Hard: Meet The Foreigners Behind Nigeria’s Latest Internet Fraud Scandal

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6 months ago

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EFCC Strikes Hard: Meet The Foreigners Behind Nigeria’s Latest Internet Fraud Scandal

In a major move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s cybercrime enforcement, a Lagos Federal High Court has sentenced and ordered the deportation of four Filipino nationals found guilty of cyberterrorism and internet fraud. The ruling, delivered by Justice Yellim Bogoro in Ikoyi, adds another layer of urgency to the country’s growing concern over foreign involvement in local cyber offenses.

This case, which also includes the conviction of seven Nigerian nationals, has stirred conversations not just about crime and punishment, but about how Nigeria is tackling the increasingly global nature of digital fraud.

⚖️ What Happened?

According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the court found Reyna Mae Eriba, Chyna Samonte, Zara Fabian, and Dominique Medina guilty of cybercrime-related offenses. Their crimes reportedly ranged from cyberterrorism to orchestrating complex internet scams using the identities of unsuspecting individuals.

Chyna Samonte, for instance, was accused of running an online syndicate that manipulated Nigerian youths into impersonating foreign nationals—essentially weaponizing identity theft to extract money from victims abroad.

Seven Nigerians were also convicted in related cases:

  • Chidera Ezechukwu (who allegedly retained over ₦12 million from an online dating scam)

  • Favour Oluchukwu

  • Egwenum Ifeanyi

  • David Okezie

  • Gbenga Shittu Solomon

  • Ibraheem Olamilekan

  • Oghomienor Jotham

All pleaded guilty.

🧾 Sentences and Sanctions

Justice Bogoro sentenced the four Filipinos to one year in prison or a fine of ₦1 million each. In addition, the Nigerian Immigration Service has been directed to deport them within seven days of completing their sentences or paying their fines.

For the Nigerian convicts:

  • Gbenga Shittu Solomon was sentenced to one year imprisonment or ₦700,000 fine,

  • The rest were given one year or a ₦500,000 fine each.

Furthermore, the court ordered the forfeiture of all recovered items to the federal government—a standard procedure meant to strip criminals of tools and proceeds of crime.

🌍 The Bigger Picture: Foreign Actors in Local Cybercrime

While Nigeria has long battled with homegrown internet fraud (often referred to as “Yahoo Yahoo”), the participation of foreign nationals—especially in leading roles—is alarming. This case underscores how cybercrime is no longer an isolated or local phenomenon but a web of transnational operations.

What’s especially disturbing is the reported exploitation of local youth by foreign syndicates. It’s a chilling reminder that cybercrime networks feed on poverty, desperation, and lax regulatory oversight—and they’re increasingly sophisticated.

🚨 Why This Matters

The Lagos court’s decision is more than a routine sentencing; it’s a statement of intent. With the growing global pressure on Nigeria to clamp down on internet fraud, this ruling sends a message: the country is not a safe haven for digital criminals—foreign or local.

But while convictions and deportations may make headlines, they are just the tip of the iceberg. Real progress will depend on:

  • Stronger cybersecurity frameworks

  • Investment in digital literacy

  • Coordinated international efforts to tackle the roots of cybercrime

🧠 Final Thoughts

The court’s ruling should be applauded—but also studied. Cybercrime isn’t going away anytime soon. As fraudsters get smarter and more global, Nigeria must continue to tighten its laws, upgrade its tech, and, above all, protect its young people from being recruited into these networks.

This case is a start, but real victory will come when the ecosystem that fuels such crimes is dismantled—piece by digital piece.

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Crime

Fresh Wave Of Insecurity: Pregnant Woman And Several Residents Abducted In Niger And FCT

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1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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Fresh Wave Of Insecurity: Pregnant Woman And Several Residents Abducted In Niger And FCT

Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges as multiple communities in Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) experienced coordinated attacks this week. These incidents come just days after the abduction of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State……CONTINUE READING

New Abduction in Niger State

Residents of Palaita community in Erena Ward, Shiroro Local Government Area were thrown into distress on Wednesday when armed groups invaded a rice farm and abducted several workers, including a pregnant woman. Community sources estimated the number of kidnapped victims to be around 24, while the Niger State Police Command confirmed 10 abductions as investigations continue.

Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. while farmers were busy harvesting their crops. Despite the community’s close proximity to a military base in Erena, the attackers escaped before security personnel arrived.

In a separate incident in Kakuru community, also in Erena Ward, residents reported that a visually impaired man was assaulted after refusing to hand over a mobile phone. The victim was given first aid, though his current condition remains unclear.

Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the attacks, assuring that security agencies are actively working to rescue the victims and restore calm in the affected areas.

Fresh Abductions in the FCT

In Abuja, communities in the Bwari Area Council faced renewed tension following another night attack in Gidan-Bijimi, a settlement near the Kaduna boundary. Six young women and a 16-year-old boy were taken during the raid, according to residents.

The attack, which occurred around 9:47 p.m. on Wednesday, created panic among locals already concerned by previous incidents in the region. Local vigilance groups attempted to intervene but retreated due to limited resources.

As of Thursday morning, families reported that no contact had been made with the attackers, while police were still verifying the details.

Church Confirms Passing of Kaduna Cleric

The Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, has announced the death of Venerable Edwin Achi, who was abducted in October along with his wife and daughter. His passing was described as a deep loss to the Diocese and the wider Christian community. The Church also announced the cancellation of the upcoming “Stand Up for Jesus 2025” event in his honour.

The Diocese assured that prayers continue for the safe return of his wife and daughter.

Federal Government Responds to Rising Insecurity

Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, reaffirmed that the Nigerian military is intensifying efforts to eliminate criminal networks responsible for attacks across the country. He explained that intermittent assaults are typical of guerrilla-style tactics but insisted that security forces are “working day and night” to restore normalcy.

He further confirmed that the Federal Government has launched a full investigation into recent school abductions, including claims that security personnel were withdrawn prior to an incident in Kebbi State.

Police Redeploy Over 11,000 Personnel

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, revealed that 11,566 police officers previously assigned to VIP protection have now been deployed to underserved communities to strengthen grassroots security.

He stated that the initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at improving community policing and ensuring fair distribution of manpower nationwide.

Cardinal Onaiyekan Calls for Better Equipment, Not More Personnel

Catholic Cardinal John Onaiyekan called on the Federal Government to prioritize properly equipping the officers already serving across the country rather than recruiting additional personnel. The Cardinal emphasized the need for immediate action, stressing that adequately supported police officers are capable of confronting insecurity.

Experts and Community Leaders Advocate Unity

Former Senator Shehu Sani and humanitarian organizations participating in the 9th International Conference on Love and Tolerance urged Nigerians to embrace unity, understanding, and dialogue. They highlighted the importance of addressing root causes of conflict, promoting peaceful coexistence, and supporting security agencies with the resources they need to protect communities.

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Crime

Dalung Breaks Silence: TikTok Chat With Bandit Exposes Deep Secrets Behind The Violence

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1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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Dalung Breaks Silence: TikTok Chat With Bandit Exposes Deep Secrets Behind The Violence

Former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, has opened up about a surprising and thought-provoking conversation he once had with a young man who claimed to be living in the bush as a bandit. Dalung shared the experience during an interview with News Central, explaining how the encounter gave him a deeper understanding of the issues fueling insecurity……CONTINUE READING

According to Dalung, he was browsing TikTok when he came across the young man, who openly described himself as someone living in the forest due to ongoing conflict. Curious, Dalung asked why they engaged in violent activities. The young man responded that they had suffered losses themselves and felt targeted by vigilante groups who, according to him, harmed their people and took their cattle. This, he said, pushed them into retaliation and led them deeper into the bush.

Dalung explained that he challenged the young man, pointing out that innocent people—including other Fulani individuals—were being harmed in the process. The young man replied that, from their viewpoint, only those living in the bush were considered part of their community, while anyone living in town was seen differently. It was a response that, according to Dalung, revealed how distorted perceptions can worsen the cycle of conflict.

Wanting to know if there was any path toward peace, Dalung asked what could help end the violence. The young man shared that they were open to negotiation and discussions that could encourage them to give up their weapons and reintegrate into society. Dalung noted that the confidence with which the young man spoke was unsettling, but it also showed that dialogue could be part of the solution.

Reflecting on the experience, Dalung urged the National Assembly to consider constitutional changes that would allow Nigerians the legal right to defend themselves responsibly, especially in areas affected by insecurity.

His conversation serves as a reminder of how complex the nation’s security challenges are—and how personal engagement, understanding, and strategic dialogue may help chart a way forward.

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Crime

BREAKING: EFCC Drags Ex-Justice Minister Malami—What He Said Will Shock You

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1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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BREAKING: EFCC Drags Ex-Justice Minister Malami—What He Said Will Shock You

Nigeria’s former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has confirmed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially summoned him—sending shockwaves across the nation’s political landscape…….CONTINUE READING

Malami, who served from 2015 to 2023 under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, broke the news himself in a bold announcement on his social media page, declaring that he is ready to face investigators head-on.

The once-powerful justice minister, known for steering some of the country’s most controversial legal battles—from massive asset recovery operations to heated anti-corruption reforms—now finds himself at the centre of a fresh probe.
Throughout his tenure, Malami was linked to numerous high-stakes decisions, arbitration wars, and sensitive financial crime cases that kept him in the public eye.

In recent years, however, scrutiny tightened around issues such as asset declarations and management of recovered funds—allegations he has firmly and repeatedly rejected.

For now, the EFCC remains tight-lipped, refusing to disclose what exactly Malami is being called in for, leaving the public buzzing with speculation.

In a confident statement on Facebook, Malami wrote:

“This is to confirm that I have been invited by the EFCC.
As a law-abiding and patriotic citizen, I reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation.
I understand the spirit of accountability and transparency in public service—principles I have always advocated.
I am committed to sharing developments with the Nigerian public as they unfold.”

With Malami’s pledge to keep Nigerians updated, all eyes are now fixed on the unfolding drama—a saga that promises to shake up the nation’s justice and political corridors once again.

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