The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested no fewer than 92 suspected internet fraudsters in Edo State. The anti-graft agency disclosed this in a statement released on Wednesday via its official X (formerly Twitter) account.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were apprehended on Monday, September 29, 2025, in Benin City, the state capital, following a coordinated sting operation conducted by operatives of its Benin Zonal Directorate.
The operation, the agency said, was carried out after it received credible intelligence linking the suspects to various forms of computer-related crimes.
“Their arrest was based on credible intelligence about their suspected involvement in computer-related crimes. All lawful procedures were followed in the course of the operation,” the EFCC statement read.
During the raid, operatives recovered 11 vehicles, several laptops, and mobile devices believed to have been used for fraudulent online activities. Preliminary investigations, according to the EFCC, revealed that the suspects were engaged in different types of internet scams, including impersonation, online dating scams, and phishing schemes.
The anti-graft agency further disclosed that the suspects would be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
“Preliminary investigations by the Commission linked the suspects with various forms of internet-related fraud. They will be charged in court as soon as investigations are concluded,” the EFCC added.
The arrests highlight the EFCC’s continued crackdown on cybercrime in Edo State, particularly in Benin City, which has been described as one of the hubs of internet fraud in Nigeria.
In recent years, the EFCC has intensified efforts to combat online fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo Boys,” with frequent raids and mass arrests. Just in August, it was reported that the Commission arrested at least 47 suspected internet fraudsters during a similar operation in the state.
The persistent wave of cybercrime has been a source of concern for both authorities and the public, given its impact on Nigeria’s global image, foreign investments, and youth productivity. Security experts have often called for more emphasis on digital literacy, youth empowerment, and stricter enforcement of cybercrime laws to address the root causes of the problem.
The Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, which was enacted in 2015, provides a legal framework for prosecuting cybercriminals in Nigeria. However, despite the law, cybercrime cases remain widespread, especially among young people in urban and semi-urban areas.
Residents of Benin City have expressed mixed reactions to the EFCC’s latest arrests. While many commend the Commission for taking decisive action, others urge the government to complement enforcement with job creation and economic opportunities for young people.
Speaking on the development, a civil rights activist in Edo State, who preferred not to be named, said, “Arresting young people every few months will not completely solve the problem. The government must address the high rate of unemployment and create an enabling environment for youths to channel their energy into productive ventures.”
The EFCC has, however, maintained that it will sustain its operations against cybercrime and ensure that those found guilty face justice.
With 92 suspects now in custody, the Commission says it is determined to pursue the case to its logical conclusion as part of its broader mandate to rid Nigeria of economic and financial crimes.