The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made significant strides in its ongoing crackdown on cybercrime, with the recent arrest of twenty-six individuals suspected of involvement in internet fraud. The arrests, carried out by the Abuja Zonal Command of the EFCC, took place on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, across various areas of the Federal Capital Territory, including Kurudu, Jahi, Kubwa, and Gwarimpa.
According to a statement released by the anti-graft agency on Friday, the apprehensions were made following actionable intelligence regarding the alleged participation of the suspects in internet-related offenses. Confirming the arrests, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale disclosed that a range of items, including luxury vehicles such as a Toyota Tacoma, a CLS Mercedes 450, and three Lexus cars, along with 40 phones and seven laptops, were seized from the suspects.
The agency emphasized that once investigations are concluded, the suspects will face charges in court, underscoring its commitment to combating cybercrime and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.
In a separate incident, two women found themselves in legal trouble after engaging in a physical altercation on Valentine’s Day. Alice Odey, 27, and Blessing Onagbulum, 39, residents of New Nyanya, Karu, Nasarawa State, were charged before a zonal Chief Magistrates’ Court in New Karu, Nasarawa State, on Friday.
The charges against the defendants, which include defamation of character, disturbance of public peace, and causing injury, stem from a fight that erupted between them on February 14. According to Inspector Shehu Ndam, who presented the case to the court, the altercation escalated to physical violence, with Odey allegedly stabbing Onagbulum multiple times with a broken bottle, resulting in injuries to her head, jaw, and neck.
Ndam further revealed that the dispute between the women revolved around accusations of relationship interference and the use of ‘juju’ to influence romantic partners. Despite pleading not guilty to the charges, the defendants were granted bail in the sum of N100,000 each, with one surety each in the same amount, by Judge Godiya Bawa. The case has been adjourned to March 15th for further proceedings.
