The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered an illegal cybercrime training facility, commonly referred to as a “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of Lagos.
Authorities arrested four key suspects and rescued six trainees, including a 12-year-old boy.
The command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the development in a statement on Tuesday.
He identified the arrested suspects as Chibuike Ihejika (23), Stanley Ihejika (22), Obiora Oyediba (26), and Emmanuel Oyedibe (25). The rescued trainees include Okorie Henry, Otoh Chisom (20), Okeke Kwufrochikwu (26), Uchenna Obeji (26), Minachi Udochukwu (12), and Chinedu Ukachukwu (23).
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects recruited trainees from Anambra State, engaging them in fraudulent online activities and seizing their illicit earnings.
The police have urged the owner of the facility to surrender at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
All arrested individuals will be prosecuted upon completion of the investigation.
The statement also disclosed that the underage victim, Minachi Udochukwu, showed signs of physical abuse, allegedly inflicted by the suspects to coerce him into cybercrime.
He is currently receiving medical care and will remain in protective custody until his family is located.
The police command has advised parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities to prevent them from being exploited or drawn into criminal activities. Additionally, victims of the syndicate’s fraudulent schemes have been encouraged to report to the SCID, Yaba.
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, commended the officers involved in the operation and reassured residents of the command’s commitment to combating cybercrime.
He urged the public to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement for prompt action.