In a major breakthrough against cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has uncovered a suspected internet fraud training hub, popularly referred to as a “Yahoo Academy,” in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State. The raid, led by operatives from the Uyo Zonal Directorate, resulted in the arrest of 23 individuals allegedly linked to online scams.
The EFCC announced the operation via a statement on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, confirming that the facility—code-named Hustle Kingdom—was dismantled on Friday following credible intelligence. Among those arrested were eight young trainees undergoing instruction in cybercrime tactics and 15 other suspected accomplices.
The suspects were apprehended at various locations, including the Doofco Palace building behind Government College Umuahia, as well as sites in Umudike, Ahiaeke, and Umugu. Items recovered during the raid include two vehicles, 15 laptops, and 34 mobile phones. The EFCC stated that all suspects will be formally charged after investigations are concluded.
Identified among the arrested individuals are: Toona Henry, Tavershima Solomon, Chi Orseer James, Ubee Benjamin, Gabriel Ibe Ifeanyi, Tindue Godwin, Muhammed Terwase Micheal, Destiny Andrew, Okezie Almond, and Precious Osmond, among others.
The commission said the raid reflects its intensified efforts to shut down illegal cybercrime operations and deter the growing culture of fraud mentorship among Nigerian youths. In recent years, similar “academies” have been uncovered in various parts of the country.
In June 2024, EFCC operatives from the Benin Zonal Command dismantled a similar fraud training centre in Ekpoma, Edo State, arresting 13 suspects including a self-proclaimed mentor. Earlier, in April, another centre was shut down in Ilorin, Kwara State, where 16 suspects were taken into custody. Likewise, in July 2023, the EFCC’s Ibadan Zonal Office busted a cybercrime facility in Osogbo, Osun State, arresting 22 individuals.
The agency has consistently voiced concern over the increasing normalization and glamorization of internet fraud—commonly known as “Yahoo Yahoo”—among young Nigerians. According to the EFCC, these so-called academies are often managed by seasoned fraudsters who indoctrinate and train newcomers not only in technical methods but in criminal justification.
EFCC spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe confirmed that efforts are ongoing to arrest additional suspects connected to the syndicate. Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police has urged parents, guardians, and communities to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting young people from criminal influences.