In a media briefing, Mr. Akaninyene Ezima an Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of the Nigeria Police Force-National Cybercrime Centre reeled out some operational achievements recorded by the Center in its continued efforts to combat cybercrime and disrupt transnational organized criminal networks operating within and beyond Nigeria.
He explained that the center has continued to strengthen its investigative capabilities, technological capacity and international partnerships in responding to the evolving cybercrime threat landscape.
"The operations will highlight today demonstrate the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to strengthening intelligence-led policing, enhancing collaboration with local and international law enforcement partners, and ensuring that persons who exploit cyberspace for criminal purposes are identified, arrested and brought to justice" Ezima said.
Ezima highlighted four major cases which is as follows:-
1. BUSINESS EMAIL COMPROMISE SYNDICATE — OPERATION BROKEN MASK :- The first case concerns a sophisticated Business Email Compromise syndicate investigated under the codename Operation Broken Mask, in collaboration with some foreign Police who provide intelligence under the Budapest Convention 24/7 Network. The investigation commenced following a preservation request received on 17th February, 2026, concerning a flagged Internet Protocol address linked to a sophisticated Business Email Compromise operation. Through subscriber checks, Bank Verification Number verification and other investigative processes, the individual behind the activities was identified as David Adeyemi Temitope.
The operation was subsequently authorized by the Inspector-General of Police on 23rd June, 2026.
ARREST AND RECOVERY
On 20th July, 2026, operatives arrested David Adeyemi Temitope at his residence in Megamound Estate, Lekki, Lagos. A search of the premises was conducted and digital devices were recovered for forensic examination. The forensic examination yielded significant evidence, including the following: Over 12.5 million victim email logs, with victims identified across more than fifty (50) countries, including Canada, Germany, the United States, India, France and the Netherlands.
The suspect’s Bank Verification Number was linked to accounts maintained with six financial institutions and fintech platforms, including Guaranty Trust Bank, Zenith Bank, FairMoney, Carbon, OPay and PalmPay. A Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 suspected to have been acquired with proceeds of crime was recovered.
The investigation established that the suspect operated a Business Email Compromise scheme through which he obtained phishing kits from a vendor on Telegram and used them to compromise Microsoft 365 login credentials belonging to employees of targeted companies.
The investigation further established that the suspect made in excess of One Hundred Million Naira (₦100,000,000.00) from the criminal enterprise. A prima facie case of Computer-Related Fraud, Business Email Compromise and Identity Theft, contrary to the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024, has been established against the suspect.
He will be arraigned before the Federal High Court upon the resumption of the Court from vacation.
2. INTERNATIONAL CYBER-ENABLED INVESTMENT FRAUD AND MONEY LAUNDERING SYNDICATE :-:The second case concerns the investigation of Kelechi Sistus Ihekaire, sole proprietor of Kestart Technology, in connection with an international cyber-enabled investment fraud and money laundering syndicate.
On 11th May, 2026, a petition was submitted by legal counsel, & Co., on behalf of the complainants. The petition alleged criminal conspiracy, Advance Fee Fraud, Identity Theft and Money Laundering, resulting in the fraudulent loss of a cumulative sum of Fifty-Six Million, Two Hundred and Ninety-Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Forty-Four Naira (₦56,293,744.00).
Investigation established that victim was induced to participate in a fraudulent WhatsApp-based stock trading platform which promised high returns. Between 25th March and 22nd April, 2026, the complainants transferred a cumulative sum of ₦56,293,744.00 into designated accounts operated by the syndicate, after which their withdrawal requests were blocked.
The funds were traced through the following entities: JPM Enterprise Trading, Kuda Bank — ₦23,600,000.00, Ahmad Digital Business, Nomba MFB — ₦18,493,605.00, JPM Pro Online Venture, VFD MFB/FalconPay — ₦14,200,000.00
Preliminary investigation further revealed that Kestart Technology, owned and operated by Kelechi Sistus Ihekaire, served as a terminal off-ramp for proceeds associated with the syndicate.. A reconstruction of the bank statement of Kestart Technology’s account with Save Heaven Microfinance Bank, Account No. 0110648352, covering the period from 30th October, 2025 to 31st May, 2026, established total terminal cash-out inflows and outflows of ₦3,621,566,996.39.
This included direct inward transfers of ₦67,241,144.00 from Ahmad Digital Business and ₦11,315,200.00 from JPM Pro Online Venture. Further investigation revealed that approximately ₦3.62 billion in suspected proceeds of crime was converted into Tether (USDT) stablecoins through Bybit Peer-to-Peer transactions, thereby making tracing and recovery of the proceeds more difficult.
Following intensive and coordinated technological investigations, operatives of the Center arrested Kelechi Sistus Ihekaire on 13th August, 2026, at No. 5 Olaniyi Street, Agiliti, Lagos. During interrogation, the suspect admitted ownership of Kestart Technology and involvement in Peer-to-Peer cryptocurrency trading on Bybit.
Further checks with the Corporate Affairs Commission and examination of a Save Heaven Microfinance Bank Board Resolution dated 22nd October, 2025, confirmed Kelechi Sistus Ihekaire as the sole proprietor and sole operational signatory of Kestart Technology.
The suspect will be arraigned before the Federal High Court, Abuja, on charges under Section 18(2)(a) and (b) of the Money Laundering Act, 2022, as amended; Sections 14(1) and 27(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes Act, 2024, as amended; and Section 7(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, 2006, as amended.
The NPF-NCCC will also pursue appropriate legal processes for the final forfeiture of funds under lien in Save Heaven Microfinance Bank Account No. 0110648352 and associated cryptocurrency assets, with a view to facilitating victim restitution where applicable.
3. CONSPIRACY, IDENTITY THEFT, IMPERSONATION AND COMPUTER-RELATED FRAUD :- The third case concerns the arrest of two suspects in Anambra State for conspiracy, identity theft, impersonation and computer-related fraud.
The investigation followed a report made to the Director, NPF-NCCC, by a top Civil servant, through the Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), vide letter No. NCC/CIG/180626/009 dated 22nd June, 2026.
The complainant alleged that the holder of GSM Number 09129288116 had stolen his identity and was impersonating him on WhatsApp and Facebook. Upon receipt of the complaint, operatives of the Center commenced a discreet investigation.
On 4th August, 2026, following sustained investigative efforts supported by technical intelligence, operatives arrested: Emeka Egba Anthony, male, aged 28 years, of Behind Jubo Company, Nkpor, Anambra State; and Ogboji Solomon Emeka, male, aged 29 years, of No. 4 Ukpo Street, Odume Obosi, Anambra State.
The following exhibits were recovered from the first suspect: 24 registered and 33 unregistered MTN SIM cards; 26 registered and 18 unregistered Airtel SIM cards; and One MTN toolkit.
The first suspect, Emeka Egba Anthony, admitted being a registered toolkit operator with MTN and Airtel Telecommunications and engaging in the buying and selling of registered and unregistered SIM cards. He further admitted creating a social media profile using the identity of “Catherine Harry,” purportedly a United Kingdom citizen, with the intention of defrauding individuals in India.
The suspect stated that he was introduced to the fraudulent activity by one “Alhaji,” who is currently at large. He also admitted purchasing registered SIM cards from the second suspect, Ogboji Solomon Emeka.
The second suspect admitted specializing in the purchase and sale of registered SIM cards sourced from one Haruna Mohammed, based in Kano State. He further disclosed that the inscription “HR” found on some of the SIM cards referred to “Haruna,” his alleged supplier.
Both suspects admitted to dealing in pre-registered SIM cards, an activity which facilitates identity theft, impersonation and other forms of cybercrime.
A prima facie case of identity theft has been established against the first suspect, while a prima facie case relating to the trading in pre-registered SIM cards has been established against both suspects. They will be charged before the appropriate court.
4. SEXTORTION, BLACKMAIL AND ONLINE ROMANCE SCAM :- The fourth case concerns an investigation into sextortion, blackmail and online romance fraud involving Abdulwajeed Abdullahi, who operated under the pseudonym “Captain Junaid.”
Ezima said that the Center commenced investigation following a petition dated 28th July, 2026, from a female complainant, who alleged sextortion, blackmail and an online romance scam involving an individual operating as “Captain Junaid.” The suspect initially contacted the complainant on TikTok on 18th June, 2026, and subsequently moved the conversation to WhatsApp.
The suspect developed a romantic relationship with the complainant and allegedly induced her to send intimate photographs and videos. On 18th July, 2026, the suspect demanded US$3,000.00 and threatened to release the intimate materials if payment was not made.
Further investigation identified another victim, also reported losing ₦3,500,000.00 to the same “Captain Junaid” identity. The investigation also linked the suspect to another female victim, of Bauchi State, from whom the suspect admitted receiving US$1,500.00 under a purported foreign exchange trading arrangement.
Through Open-Source Intelligence and other investigative techniques, the person behind the “Captain Junaid” account was identified as Abdulwajeed Abdullahi and traced to Kano State.
On 4th August, 2026, operatives of the Center arrested the suspect at his residence in Kano State. Forensic examination of devices recovered from the suspect revealed intimate photographs and videos belonging to multiple females, as well as forged academic certificates and identity cards bearing the suspect’s photograph but different names.
Confronted with the evidence, the suspect voluntarily confessed to the offences. He admitted commencing romance scam activities in January, 2026, and operating the “Captain Junaid” identity to obtain money under false pretences. He also admitted receiving ₦3,500,000.00 from a victim and US$1,500.00 from and threatening the complainant with the release of her intimate photographs.
The suspect further stated that he had been using the identity, photographs and publicly available materials of one “Captain Abdullahi Rajhi,” a Saudi pilot, to create and operate the false “Captain Junaid” persona. He disclosed that he obtained some of the photographs and videos from Telegram groups for use in his impersonation activities.
5. POLICE ARREST SUSPECTED LAND DOCUMENT THIEF IN ABUJA :- This one deals with the arrest of one Paulsurplus Yohanna, aged 40yrs from Paiko local government area of Niger state, an employee of a foreign national resident in Abuja, over the alleged theft and attempted sale of several land title documents belonging to his former employer.
The suspect was arrested on 13th August 2026 at about 1300hrs, following credible intelligence received by the National Cybercrime Centre. At the time of his arrest, the suspect was found in possession of several land title documents allegedly belonging to his former employer, which he reportedly intended to dispose of unlawfully.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect was disengaged from his employment in January 2026. Further investigation has established that he had allegedly sold one of the properties located in the Kagini area of Abuja after his dismissal. Operatives has commenced efforts to trace and recover the proceeds of the alleged transaction, as well as identify and recover other properties and land documents reportedly taken by the suspect.
Investigation also revealed that the suspect duplicates the key of his boss office and forged some land document, he also sold one Toyota Rav4 belonging to his boss at the sum of twenty-five million naira only (#25,000.000.00k)
The suspect remains in police custody as investigation continues to unravel the full extent of the alleged offences and identify other persons who may have participated in or benefited from the transactions.
The Nigeria Police Force-National Cybercrime Center assures members of the public that the investigation will be conducted professionally and in accordance with the law. The Force further reiterates its commitment to protecting lives and property and bringing persons involved in criminal activities to justice.
6. CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY, IMPERSONATION AND OBTAINNG MONEY BY FALSE PRETENCES AMOUNTING TO SEVNETEEN MILLION NAIRA ONLY (#17,000,000.00K) :- Babatunde Olamilekan Idowu aka CSP Bamiseye was arrested for impersonation as a serving Commissioner of Police serving at FID Abuja. One Abass Musibau Ajisafe wanted to lodge a petition against one Alhaji Odugbemi and in the process contacted the said Bamisaye and provided him the details of the victim. The said Babatunde who normally impersonated as CSP Bamisaye contacted the victim together with other members of his syndicate presently at large, claiming to be CP Bamisaye of FID Abuja. The other members acted as the Inspector General of Police and Attorney General of the Federation. In this process, the victim was extorted of the sum of #17 MILIION NAIRA. Following the complaint, the principal suspect was arrested somewhere in Ekiti state. He has confessed to his crime and would be prosecuted accordingly. Interestingly, the suspect has a long history of police impersonation, and was popularly known as Ebora SARS in the Ikorodu axis of Lagos and its environs. I want to use this as a note of warning to those impersonating top police officials that at some point, the game would be up. Also, members of the public are advised to verify the identities of unknown persons contacting them on phone claiming to be police officers.
Ezima emphasized that the cases presented underscore the determination of the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police,Mr. Olatunji Rilwan Disu the Inspector General of Police to strengthen the fight against cybercrime and other technology-enabled criminal activities.
The scale and nature of these investigations are significant. In the Business Email Compromise investigation alone, more than 12.5 million victim email logs were recovered, with victims identified across more than fifty countries.
In the international investment fraud and money laundering investigation, over ₦3.6 billion in suspected criminal proceeds was traced through a cryptocurrency conversion scheme. The Business Email Compromise investigation also established that the suspect had generated in excess of ₦100 million from the criminal operation.
Similarly, the sextortion and romance scam investigation revealed multiple victims associated with the same criminal identity.
These operations demonstrate the growing technical capability of the NPF-NCCC in the areas of digital forensics, open-source intelligence, network analysis, financial investigation and cryptocurrency tracing.
They also demonstrate the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational cybercrime. The successful collaboration under the Budapest Convention framework underscores Nigeria’s commitment to international cooperation and information sharing in the fight against cybercrime.
The identification of Kestart Technology as a terminal off-ramp for suspected criminal proceeds further demonstrates the Center’s increasing focus on the financial infrastructure that sustains cybercrime.
"Our objective is not only to arrest cybercriminals but also to identify, trace and disrupt the financial channels through which criminal proceeds are moved and concealed. The arrest of individuals involved in the trading of pre-registered SIM cards also demonstrates our commitment to dismantling the infrastructure that facilitates identity theft, impersonation and other forms of cyber-enabled crime" Ezima explained.
"Let me use this opportunity to issue a clear warning to individuals and criminal networks engaged in cybercrime. The long arm of the law will catch up with you. The sophistication of your tools, the use of encrypted platforms, cryptocurrency or false identities will not guarantee your safety. The NPF-NCCC is strengthening its investigative capabilities, expanding partnerships with international law enforcement agencies and deploying advanced technical tools to identify, trace, arrest and prosecute persons involved in cybercrime. No matter how sophisticated your methods may appear, and no matter how well you believe you have concealed your tracks, we will find you"He said.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police urged the members of the public to exercise greater caution in their online interactions.
First, beware of unsolicited romantic approaches on social media platforms. Romance scams and sextortion schemes continue to exploit unsuspecting victims.
Second, verify investment opportunities before committing your funds. Members of the public should be cautious of online platforms promising unrealistic or guaranteed returns.
Third, protect your personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive photographs, videos, passwords, banking details, Bank Verification Number and other personal identification information with persons whose identities and intentions have not been properly verified.
Fourth, verify links and online platforms before accessing or joining them. A seemingly harmless link may be used to compromise your account or expose your personal information.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities through the designated channels of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center.
Ezima concluded that the Nigeria Police Force, remains committed to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians and contributing to the security of the global digital environment.
The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center will continue to enhance its investigative and technological capabilities, strengthen strategic partnerships and pursue persons involved in cybercrime within the full ambit of the law.
"Our approach remains intelligence-led, technology-driven and partnership-based. We will continue to work with relevant government institutions, financial institutions, technology companies and international law enforcement partners to disrupt cybercriminal networks, trace criminal proceeds and protect citizens from emerging digital threats. I appreciate the continued support of the media in disseminating credible information about our operations and in educating the public on the dangers associated with cybercrime" He concluded.