2024: Police cybercrime squad dismantles 5,049 fraud domains, arrests 752

The Nigeria Police high command cyber squad, popularly called ‘Cyber Hawks,’ has successfully dismantled no fewer than 5,049 malicious domains and networks, including major cybercrime syndicates operating within and beyond Nigeria’s borders in 2024.

The operations have also resulted in over 751 arrests and prosecutions of cybercrime threat elements, while 685 devices were recovered, which comprised 467 mobile phones, 137 laptops/computers, 46 routers, 4 servers, 1 drone, and 4 Starlink devices.

This disclosure was made by police spokesman ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, accompanied by the Commissioner of Police in charge of the squad, CP Ifeanyi Henry Uche.

According to the duo, 16 houses, 39 plots of land, and 14 land documents were confiscated, alongside 26 vehicles in the same year under review.

They hinted that 508 cybercrime cases were reported, including sextortion and cyberstalking.

The department has also been able to secure 14 convictions and recover the sum of N8.82 billion, 115,237.91 USDT, and $84,000, which have been restituted to the victims.

Adejobi noted that the Nigeria Police Force was pleased to announce a year of remarkable achievements, significant operational milestones, and numerous accolades received throughout 2024 by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center (NPF-NCCC).

He said, “These accomplishments underscore the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding Nigeria’s digital landscape and combating cybercrime effectively.

“In early 2024, the NPF-NCC relaunched an upgraded Cybercrime E-Reporting System, enhancing accessibility and streamlining the process for citizens to report cyber incidents, including extortion, cryptocurrency and investment scams, cyberstalking, and other cybercrime trends.

“This system has significantly increased reporting efficiency, enabling quicker response times and more effective case management.”

He added that throughout the year, the Centre spearheaded a comprehensive cybersecurity awareness campaign, through workshops, seminars, and digital platforms.

He said, “The initiative focused on educating the public about online safety practices and the importance of reporting cyber threats.

“The Centre is poised to tackle emerging cyber threats and ensure the safety and security of Nigeria’s digital cyberspace and the protection of victims of cybercrime.”