Operatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have taken 21 suspected internet fraudsters into custody following a targeted raid at Applewood Estate along Orchid Road in the Lekki area of Lagos State.
The operation, conducted by operatives of the commission’s Lagos Directorate 1 at about 5am on Monday, October 26, 2026, also led to the seizure of five exotic cars.
In a statement, the EFCC said the suspects allegedly obtained money from unsuspecting victims through gift cards, cryptocurrencies and international money transfers by impersonating different individuals.
The commission attributed the arrests to surveillance and reconnaissance carried out ahead of the operation.
It also disclosed that a young woman who allegedly attempted to alert the suspects by making telephone calls during the operation was temporarily held, while her phone was confiscated.
The phone was subsequently returned to her after the operation.
According to the EFCC, preliminary investigations implicated 19 of the 21 arrested suspects, while the remaining two were released.
The commission said the 19 indicted suspects would be arraigned in court immediately.
Defending the operation amid concerns over its conduct, the EFCC maintained that the raid was professionally executed, insisting that there was no harassment, intimidation or unlawful arrest.
The commission urged Nigerians to support its campaign against economic and financial crimes, calling on the public to condemn activities that damage the country’s reputation.
It added that it remained open to constructive engagement with members of the public but warned that attempts to blackmail the commission or create unnecessary alarm would not be allowed to undermine its mandate.
What You Should Know
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission conducted a morning sting operation at a Lekki estate, leading to the arrest of 21 individuals accused of internet fraud, alongside the seizure of five luxury vehicles.
- Positive Impact: Intensified crackdowns on cybercrime help curb financial fraud, safeguard unsuspecting citizens from online scams, and strengthen digital security.
- Potential Concerns: High-profile raids within residential estates can spark public debates regarding law enforcement procedures, privacy, and community safety protocols during operations.
