In a decisive operation targeting the growing menace of cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested 105 individuals, including four Chinese nationals, over a sophisticated online fraud scheme in Abuja on January 9, 2025.
The suspects, apprehended at Naka Hall Plaza on Abutu Garba Street, Gudu, were reportedly involved in a global scam known as the “Hotel Review Job Scam,” which primarily targets unsuspecting victims in the United Kingdom. According to EFCC spokespersons, the arrests followed extensive intelligence-gathering and undercover operations.
“This syndicate has exploited the trust of foreigners through a well-crafted fraudulent mechanism,” said EFCC’s acting spokesperson. “We are collaborating with international law enforcement to dismantle this global network of criminals.”
A Scheme Built on Deceit
The “Hotel Review Job Scam” is a newly emerging form of cybercrime in Nigeria, though it is well entrenched globally. The scam involves duping victims into participating in bogus hotel reviews with promises of easy earnings.
“The suspects used elaborate methods to gain the trust of their victims,” an EFCC investigator disclosed. “Initially, they would offer $5 per hotel review, gradually increasing it to $10 to encourage more participation. Eventually, victims were lured into making hotel bookings worth up to $500 with the assurance of high returns in cryptocurrency. Once payments were made, the victims would find themselves locked out of their supposed crypto wallets, losing their money entirely.”
The EFCC revealed that the operation relied on an intricate system managed by the Chinese suspects, who recruited computer-savvy Nigerians as customer service representatives. These representatives used fake foreign identities to interact with victims, presenting the scam as legitimate business.
Tools of the Trade
During the raid, the EFCC recovered 100 compact workstations used by the suspects to carry out their fraudulent activities. The agency confirmed that these tools were critical in facilitating the scam, which targeted victims across Europe and other regions.
“This operation demonstrates how technology is being misused to perpetuate cybercrimes. It is a wake-up call for Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid being lured into such schemes,” the EFCC’s statement added.
A Broader Crackdown on Cybercrime
The Abuja arrests come just weeks after the EFCC made headlines with another major operation in Lagos, where 792 suspected internet fraudsters were apprehended. The December 10, 2024, raid targeted a building on Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, which investigators identified as a hub for investment and online fraud.
“This is part of our intensified efforts to combat cybercrime in Nigeria,” an EFCC official noted. “The Lagos case involved a similar level of sophistication, and the suspects will be charged to court in the coming days.”
A Growing Menace
Cybercrime has become a significant challenge in Nigeria, tarnishing the country’s reputation internationally. The EFCC, however, has ramped up its efforts to clamp down on such activities, working in collaboration with global law enforcement agencies.
“This fraud goes beyond Nigeria; it is an international crime with far-reaching consequences,” an EFCC investigator emphasized. “By arresting these suspects, we are not just protecting foreign victims but also safeguarding Nigeria’s image.”
The commission highlighted the increasing involvement of foreign nationals in these scams, with the presence of four Chinese suspects in the Abuja operation underscoring the international dimensions of the problem.
A Call for Vigilance
The EFCC urged Nigerians to exercise caution when approached with offers that seem too good to be true, particularly online job opportunities.
“Many of these scams thrive because victims are not aware of the risks,” the EFCC spokesperson warned. “We advise Nigerians to report suspicious activities to law enforcement promptly.”
The agency also appealed to the public to avoid participating in cybercrime, warning of the severe consequences for those found guilty.
Looking Ahead
As the EFCC intensifies its crackdown, the arrested suspects in Abuja are set to face prosecution, with the commission pledging to ensure that justice is served.
“This is just the beginning,” the EFCC said in a concluding statement. “We are determined to dismantle every network of fraudsters operating in Nigeria and beyond.”
