Police Uncover ₦7.7bn Telecom Fraud Scheme, Arrest Multiple Suspects
The Nigeria Police Force has uncovered a large-scale telecommunications fraud operation involving unauthorised access to digital systems and the незакон exploitation of network services, leading to the arrest of several individuals.
The development followed a complaint from a telecommunications company regarding a breach of its internal systems. Investigations revealed that the suspects obtained and used staff login credentials to gain access to the company’s billing platform.
Authorities said the breach occurred over a period in late 2024, during which the suspects generated airtime illegally and converted it into data bundles. These were subsequently distributed and sold through a network of vendors across different parts of the country.
Police investigations indicated that the scheme involved both internal collaborators and external accomplices working together to execute the fraud.
During the course of the operation, security operatives recovered hundreds of laptops, mobile phones, point-of-sale devices, cash and other items believed to be linked to the criminal activity.
Further operations carried out in several northern states led to the arrest of additional suspects believed to be key members of the network.
Financial tracking and asset recovery efforts resulted in the seizure of cash and properties suspected to be proceeds of the fraud, including residential buildings, a commercial facility and a vehicle.
The police said investigations are ongoing to identify other individuals connected to the scheme and to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.
The Inspector-General of Police reaffirmed the commitment of the force to tackling cybercrime and safeguarding critical digital infrastructure, while encouraging the public to support ongoing efforts with relevant information.
