War on cybercrime: NPF-NCCC recovers N8bn, arrests 751, seizes 685 devices

Stanley Ihedigbo

Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) recorded impressive achievements in its fight against cybercrime in 2024, as they recovered N8bn, arrested and prosecuted over 751 individuals as well as recovered a total of 685 devices used in the nefarious activities.

According to the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the centre recovered a staggering N8bn in proceeds of crime, as well as 115,237.91 USDT, and $84,000.

These significant amounts have been restituted to the victims of cybercrime, reaffirming the commitment of the Force to protecting citizens and ensuring justice for those affected by fraudulent activities.

Similarly, in the past year, the Cybercrime Unit has actively engaged in strategic operations, resulting in the arrests and prosecutions of over 751 individuals involved in cybercrime. The unit has successfully recovered a total of 685 devices that were used in these nefarious activities, which include 467 mobile phones, 137 laptops and computers, 46 routers, 4 servers, 1 drone, and 4 Starlink devices.

Additionally, the operations led to the confiscation of 16 houses, 39 plots of land, 14 land documents, and 26 vehicles, further dismantling the infrastructure supporting cybercriminal activities.

In recognition of its outstanding performance and dedication, the NPF-NCCC has been awarded the title of the Best Cybercrime Unit in Africa for 2024 by the INTERPOL Cybercrime Directorate based in Singapore, securing the top position among 54 participating African countries.

These achievements reflects the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force to fighting cybercrime and enhancing the safety of citizens in the digital space.

In furtherance to efforts towards keeping the cyberspace safe, operatives of the NPF-NCCC have apprehended 4 suspects identified as Douglass Victor, Egbo Efe Martins, Lucky Adesunloye’, and Ndifreke Joseph Moody, for various cyber-related offences.

The Nigeria Police remains committed towards combating cyber threats, staying steps ahead of cybercriminals, thereby enhancing the nation’s overall cybersecurity framework and protecting the welfare of its citizens in the digital era. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and exercise caution when sharing sensitive data or interacting with unfamiliar online entities, cultivating a culture of cyber awareness and promoting responsible online behavior are essential components in fortifying the defenses against cyber threats.