Police Bust Illegal Cybercrime Training Facility in Lagos, Rescue 12-Year-Old Trainee 

CP Olohundare Jimoh, Lagos State Commissioner of Police. 

The Lagos State Police Command has dismantled an illegal cybercrime training facility, commonly known as a “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of Lagos. The raid, which led to the arrest of four suspects and the rescue of six trainees, highlights the growing concern over cybercrime and the exploitation of young individuals for fraudulent activities. 

Rescued Trainee and Arrested Suspects 

Among the rescued individuals was 12-year-old Minachi Udochukwu, a minor who was reportedly forced into internet fraud training. The principal suspects arrested in the operation include: 

Chibuike Ihejika (23) 

Stanley Ihejika (22) 

Obiora Oyediba (26) 

Emmanuel Oyedibe (25) 

The police also detained six trainees undergoing cybercrime training: 

Okorie Henry 

Otoh Chisom (20) 

Okeke Kwufrochikwu (26) 

Uchenna Obeji (26) 

Chinedu Ukachukwu (23) 

Minachi Udochukwu (12) 

How the Cybercrime Syndicate Operated 

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects recruited trainees from Anambra State, coercing them into internet fraud schemes. Shockingly, the fraudulent earnings generated by the trainees were confiscated by the principal suspects. Further, evidence suggested that some trainees, including the minor, were subjected to physical abuse to force their compliance. 

“Protecting our youth from exploitation is a shared responsibility. Cybercrime is not a path to success—education and integrity are. Let’s work together to safeguard the future of our children.” — CP Olohundare Jimoh, Lagos State Commissioner of Police. 

Action Taken by the Authorities 

The Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) is handling the investigation, and all arrested individuals will be charged to court. Meanwhile, the owner of the facility has been warned to surrender to the authorities or face legal consequences. 

The police have provided medical care and protective custody for the underage victim, ensuring his safety until he can be reunited with his family. 

Call for Public Awareness and Parental Vigilance 

The Lagos State Police Command has urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant about their children’s activities to prevent them from being exploited. It also encourages victims of cybercrime scams to come forward and report their cases at the SCID, Yaba. 

A Step Towards a Safer Society 

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, commended the officers involved in the operation for their dedication. He assured residents that the police remain committed to tackling all forms of cybercrime and youth exploitation. 

This case underscores the urgent need for community awareness, parental supervision, and law enforcement collaboration in combating cybercrime. By staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activities, we can work towards a safer society where young people are protected from criminal exploitation.