In a major operation against cybercrime, the Nigerian Army has arrested 183 suspected internet fraudsters in Warri, Delta State. The coordinated raid, conducted on July 19, 2025, was carried out by the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army and Sector 1 of the Joint Task Force (South South), Operation Delta Safe (OPDS).
According to a statement from Captain Iliyasu Bawa Rijau, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 63 Brigade, the operation followed actionable intelligence about the activities of suspected online scammers operating in residential apartments believed to be used as training hubs for cyber fraud, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo.”
The suspects — all males aged between 16 and 29 — were apprehended during the sting operation, which also led to the recovery of a substantial cache of electronic equipment.
What Was Recovered:
- 274 assorted laptops
- 87 mobile phones
- 9 laptop chargers
- 2 WiFi devices
- 1 table phone
The Army confirmed that all suspects and recovered items are now under preliminary investigation. Authorities say further legal steps will follow based on the outcome of the ongoing probe.
Captain Rijau emphasized the military’s continued resolve in combating cybercrime and maintaining security in the region. He urged the public to support ongoing efforts by reporting suspicious digital activities.
“This operation is part of a broader campaign to sanitize society and eliminate cybercrime. We remain committed to ensuring a secure environment for all Nigerians,” the Army said in its statement.
This latest crackdown adds to the growing list of operations targeted at dismantling internet fraud networks in Nigeria, which have become increasingly sophisticated and widespread in recent years.