In a sweeping operation targeting cybercriminals, the Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has arrested 90 individuals, the majority of them illegal immigrants. The suspects, including 85 Cameroonians and five Chadians, were apprehended during a coordinated raid conducted with other security agencies.
Rivers State Comptroller of Immigration, Mr. YI Abdulmajeed, disclosed that credible intelligence had led authorities to the suspects’ hideout. “This operation is a testament to our commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements,” Abdulmajeed declared.
The Breakdown of Arrests
Out of the 90 individuals taken into custody, 74 were males, and 20 were females. Profiling revealed that 85 of the suspects hailed from Cameroon, while five were from Chad. Additionally, two Nigerians accused of harboring the foreign nationals were also detained.
“These individuals entered Nigeria illegally through unauthorized routes, bypassing immigration checks. None of them could produce valid travel documents or residence permits,” Abdulmajeed stated.
The suspects are accused of engaging in cybercrimes, allegedly defrauding Nigerians through various online schemes. Authorities believe they operated as part of an organized network, exploiting vulnerable individuals and businesses.
Immediate Deportation Ordered
Following the arrests, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nanna Nandap, has issued an order for the immediate deportation of the foreign nationals. “The Nigeria Immigration Service will not tolerate illegal immigrants who exploit our borders to perpetrate crimes. Deportation processes have been set in motion,” Nandap emphasized.
Nigerians Involved Face Legal Consequences
Two Nigerians from Rivers State who were allegedly accommodating the suspects will face charges under the law. Their involvement has raised concerns about local complicity in aiding foreign criminal networks.
A senior immigration official, who spoke anonymously, revealed the gravity of the situation. “This isn’t just about illegal entry; it’s about the security threat posed by these individuals. Their activities are detrimental to both the economy and public trust,” the official remarked.
The Cybercrime Crisis in Nigeria
Cybercrime remains a significant challenge for Nigeria, with its reputation as Africa’s largest digital economy often attracting both local and international fraudsters. According to a report by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), cybercrimes cost the country over ₦250 billion annually.
The influx of illegal immigrants participating in such activities has compounded the problem. The porous nature of Nigeria’s borders has been a recurring issue, with unauthorized entry points often exploited by traffickers, smugglers, and criminal syndicates.
The Rivers State incident is one of several recent crackdowns. In 2024, a similar operation in Lagos State led to the arrest of 50 foreign nationals involved in online scams.
The Role of Joint Operations
The success of the operation in Rivers State highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration. Immigration officials worked closely with the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local security networks to apprehend the suspects.
“This operation sends a strong message that security agencies are united in tackling cybercrime. We urge citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities,” Abdulmajeed urged.
