The Nigeria Police Force’s National Cybercrime Centre (NCCC) has uncovered and dismantled a sophisticated cyber fraud syndicate that was hijacking WhatsApp accounts of prominent Nigerians and using them to defraud unsuspecting contacts
The operation, which followed a complaint filed on April 14, 2025, was confirmed in a statement on Wednesday by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer.
According to the police, the cyber intelligence team of the NPF-NCCC used advanced digital forensics and other investigative tactics to unmask the syndicate’s operations.
The investigation revealed that the group used social engineering tactics and mobile platform compromises to take control of WhatsApp accounts.
In the course of the operation, illicit funds running into millions of naira were traced across multiple Nigerian banks and subsequently frozen.
One of the key suspects, identified as Onajite Okoro, was arrested in Warri, Delta State. Okoro reportedly confessed to collaborating with an accomplice known as “Chief Mallam Zaki,” whom he had met through Facebook.
Police sources said Okoro played a significant role in registering SIM cards, linking them to various bank accounts, and facilitating fraudulent fund transfers. Investigators also recovered evidence from Okoro’s equipment and financial records, confirming his involvement in the scheme.
“One key suspect, Onajite Okoro ‘m’, was apprehended in Warri, Delta State. The suspect confessed to collaborating with an accomplice identified as “Chief Mallam Zaki,” whom he met via Facebook, further highlighting his role in facilitating the fraudulent scheme by registering SIM cards, linking them to various bank accounts, and assisting in illicit fund transfers,” the statement said.
“Further analysis of Okoro’s fraudulent equipment and financial records has yielded concrete evidence of his involvement in the fraudulent scheme.”
The police said further investigations have revealed additional syndicate members who remain at large.
Efforts are ongoing to arrest these suspects and prosecute those involved.
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Oh dear!
Good job