From Matthew Ogune, Abuja
Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 17 suspected Internet fraudsters in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
The suspects: Osita Emmanuel, 25; Saint Johnson, 20; Peter Lucky, 26; Samuel Asuquo, 28; Raphael James, 29; Chimobi Moses, 29; Edara Ubong, 21; and Nchekwube Paul, 23 were arrested during a sting operation carried out between April 11 and 14, 2025.
Others apprehended include Happiness Anietie Michael, 23; Christopher Edet, 32; Amadi Justice, 27; Patrick Ahiakwo, 30; Sunday Umoh, 24; Michael Ekerette Sunday, 25; Kennedy Etim Okokon, 29; Igwe Greg, 30; and Goodnews Ita, 23.
The suspects were picked up in various locations within the state capital, including Use-Offot, Nwaniba, Urua Ekpa, Ring Road 3, Ikot Ekpene Road, Calabar Itu Road, and the Mechanic Village axis.
Items recovered from them include 26 smartphones, three laptops, a white Lexus IS 250 (ABJ-739AV), a metallic grey Toyota Corolla (KTE-687EP), a black Lexus 350 (BWR-36LN), and a black GLE (FST-863JS).
Spokesperson for the Commission, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the arrests and stated that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
