As Africa continues its rapid digital transformation, cybercrime has emerged as one of its most pressing challenges. With increasing internet penetration and the rise of mobile financial services, the digital economy has become a critical growth driver. However, this progress has been accompanied by a surge in cyber threats.

Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 105 individuals, including four Chinese nationals, for alleged involvement in an internet fraud scheme targeting hotels in Europe and other regions.  The anti-corruption agency disclosed this on Friday, January 10.

“We are working with other law enforcement agencies across the world to dig deeper into the global dimensions involved in this crime,” the EFCC said in a tweet.

The suspects were apprehended on Thursday, January 9 during a raid on an apartment in Abuja, Nigeria's capital. According to the EFCC, the group is accused of running a "hotel review job scam" designed to defraud unsuspecting victims.

The operation follows a string of high-profile crackdowns on cybercrime in Nigeria. Just last month, nearly 800 people, including 148 Chinese and 40 Filipino nationals, were arrested during a raid on a suspected fraud hub. The scheme involved luring victims with fake romance offers before coercing them into fraudulent cryptocurrency investments.

This development aligns with the recent recognition of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre as Africa's Best Cybercrime Unit for 2024 by Interpol’s Cybercrime Directorate, highlighting Nigeria’s outstanding achievements in combating cybercrime.

Hikmatu Bilali