Lawmakers raised concern over suspected bandits and terrorists openly displaying money and criminal activities on social media platforms.
The Senate has directed security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, to intensify efforts to track and arrest bandits and terrorists allegedly operating openly on social media platforms such as TikTok.
The resolution followed deliberations during plenary, where lawmakers expressed concern over criminal groups reportedly displaying cash believed to be proceeds of illegal activities while conducting public giveaways online.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, called for coordinated action involving the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre and other relevant security agencies to identify and apprehend individuals using digital platforms to promote criminal operations.
According to discussions at the Senate, some of the suspected criminals were no longer operating discreetly but were openly showcasing financial proceeds and activities through livestreams and online content.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the development as a challenge to state authority and urged security institutions to treat the matter as an urgent national security concern.
The Senate subsequently called for improved surveillance, monitoring and enforcement actions aimed at dismantling digital networks connected to criminal groups operating online.