The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has uncovered a secret training centre for internet fraud, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo,” in Abuja. In a major operation, the agency arrested 31 suspects linked to the illegal activities.
The centre, located in Becki Estate in the Karu area of the Federal Capital Territory, was allegedly set up to train young people in different types of online scams.
According to reports, the operation was well-organised and run like a school, with “students” being taught step-by-step methods of carrying out fraud on the internet.
Two suspects believed to be the main organisers and owners of the academy were also arrested during the raid.
Investigations by the EFCC revealed that many of the trainees were deceived into joining the academy.
They were reportedly brought in from Benue State with promises of getting legitimate jobs and learning useful skills.
However, on arrival, the situation turned out to be very different from what they were told.
The recruits allegedly had their mobile phones seized and were not allowed to leave the premises. They were kept under strict control and forced to undergo intensive training in cybercrime.
The EFCC also disclosed that some of the trainees were subjected to physical punishment and harsh treatment if they refused to cooperate or failed to meet expectations.
During the operation, EFCC officials recovered 18 laptop computers along with several high-end mobile phones believed to have been used for teaching and carrying out online fraud.
These items are expected to serve as evidence in the ongoing investigation.
The anti-graft agency stated that the suspects are currently in custody and will be charged in court once investigations are completed.
The EFCC also reiterated its commitment to cracking down on internet fraud and protecting Nigerians from criminal activities in the digital space.
This development highlights the growing concern over organised cybercrime in the country, especially schemes that target and exploit young people under false promises of employment.
