Police Arrests 123 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Delta

The Delta State Police Command has paraded 123 individuals believed to be involved in internet fraud, commonly known as “Yahoo Boys,” following a military-led operation by soldiers from the 3 Battalion of the Nigerian Army.

The arrests took place at the Army Estate in Effurun and the suspects have been handed over to the Ekpan Police Divisional Headquarters in Uvwie Local Government Area.

During a press briefing on September 25, Delta State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Bright Edafe revealed that the suspects are linked to a notorious cybercrime syndicate known as “HK” (Hustle Kingdom).

The group allegedly functions as a training hub for young men aged between 17 and 25, who are lured under the pretext of learning forex trading but are instead trained in fraudulent practices.

“Many of these young men were attracted to this group due to their desire for quick wealth. Some have been in the HK School for over three months without contacting their families,” SP Edafe stated.

He expressed concern about the lack of parental involvement, questioning why families do not report to authorities when their children go missing for extended periods. “Most of these issues stem from poor parenting,” he added.

Reports from the raid indicated that the group’s handlers had confiscated the recruits’ phones, confined them to the premises, and provided them with only one meal per day.

SP Edafe confirmed that the suspects come from various states, including; Akwa-Ibom, Oyo, Kaduna, Kwara, Lagos, Anambra, Kogi, and Benue.

Four drivers hired to transport the suspects were also apprehended but released after it was established they were not involved in any criminal activities.

All 123 suspects will be arraigned in court.