In a concerning revelation, the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Hassan Yabanet, disclosed on Tuesday the existence of a fraud academy established by internet fraudsters in Makurdi, the state capital. This announcement came as part of the parading of 35 suspects arrested for various criminal activities.
Commissioner Yabanet revealed that a team of detectives was dispatched to investigate the fraudulent academy, located at Jerome Hwande Street in Ankpa Quarters, Makurdi. Subsequently, on May 14, 2024, two suspects, Terpase Luke Denmodi and Avalumun Ayangekaa Dominic, aged 23 and 24 respectively, were apprehended at the premises.
During the operation, law enforcement recovered several items from the suspects, including seven HP laptops, an Apple notebook, a Canon printer, 15 notes of Ghana cedis, two international passports, and assorted clothing items.
Further investigation uncovered that the suspected internet fraudsters operated multiple social media accounts on their phones to perpetrate financial scams targeting unsuspecting individuals.
In addition to those involved in cybercrime, the police also arrested individuals implicated in other criminal activities such as kidnapping, cultism, and armed robbery.
Commissioner Yabanet issued a stern warning to landlords and hoteliers, urging them to exercise caution in accommodating individuals, as they risk becoming unwitting accomplices and may face prosecution for criminal conspiracy.
The revelation of a fraud academy underscores the evolving tactics employed by cybercriminals and highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat such illicit activities.
