In a recent operation carried out by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), 32 individuals including a popular TikTok musician, Crown Uzama (aka ShalliPopi), and his manager, Ajayi Abdul Hafeez (aka 21 Badda), were arrested for their alleged involvement in internet-related fraud.
The arrests were made following actionable intelligence about a proposed show by suspected internet fraudsters at Barnawa in Kaduna. The suspects were apprehended in sting operations at Disney Park Lounge, Epitome and Tomoso Hotels, all situated in the Barnawa area of Kaduna.
In addition to the popular TikTok musician and his manager, four females, Glory Chinyere Kelvin Ogunwa, Tina Ochonogor, Favour Baba Dawa and Joseph Judith Iya were also arrested along with Adewale Adedokun, Yakubu Emmanuel Ojochememi, AbdulAzeez Temidayo Suleiman, Umoru Osioke AbdulAzeez l, Emmanuel Isaac Iwebo, Shuaibu Umaru Smart, Joel Kator, Gowon Titus, Emmanuel Daniel, Enough Etim Ekpo, Atano Timi Eben, Ijuo John Ochi, Paul Emmanuel Kaye, Uyit Victor, and David Elijah Yachai.
The list of those arrested also includes Leche Precious Sokomba, Onoja Samuel Uroko, Cornelius Oyathekhua Agbodesi, Edigim Nosa Success, Azubuike Melchizedek Oniya, Usman Shereef, Victory Dennis Chiemela, Lambert Fortunetus Chikwado, Asoore King Oloruntoba, and Malik Adanu Jibril.
The EFCC stated that mobile phones, laptop computers, and two vehicles were recovered from the suspects.
The arrested individuals will be arraigned before the court upon conclusion of the investigation.
It is important to note that internet-related fraud and cybercrime have become a growing concern in Nigeria. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to continue to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to curb such criminal acts. Additionally, it is important for individuals to be aware of the devastating effects of fraud and scamming and to desist from indulging in such activities.
