The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered and dismantled an illegal cybercrime training center, commonly known as a “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of Lagos State.
In a statement on Tuesday, the command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest of four principal suspects and six trainees, including a 12-year-old boy identified as Minachi Udochukwu.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspects lured trainees from Anambra State, engaged them in internet fraud, and confiscated their illicit earnings.
During the raid, police apprehended four individuals believed to be running the fraudulent scheme: Chibuike Ihejika, 23; Stanley Ihejika, 22; Obiora Oyediba, 26; and Emmanuel Oyedibe, 25.
Six trainees undergoing cybercrime training were also arrested: Okorie Henry, Otoh Chisom, 20; Okeke Kwufrochikwu, 26; Uchenna Obeji, 26; Minachi Udochukwu, 12; and Chinedu Ukachukwu, 23.
“The proceeds from their fraudulent activities were being confiscated by the principal suspects,” Hundeyin stated.
Authorities have urged the owner of the facility to turn himself in at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and assured that all suspects would be charged in court upon completion of the investigation.
Meanwhile, the police provided medical care for Minachi Udochukwu after discovering injuries on his body, allegedly inflicted to force him into cybercrime activities. The boy has been placed in protective custody until his family is identified.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, commended the officers involved in the operation and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating cybercrime.
Residents have been urged to report any suspicious activities to local authorities, while parents and guardians were advised to closely monitor their children’s activities to prevent them from being lured into criminal enterprises.
