The Delta State Police Command has paraded 123 suspected internet fraudsters, commonly referred to as “Yahoo Boys,” following their arrest in a military operation led by soldiers from the 3 Battalion of the Nigerian Army.
The suspects were apprehended at the Army Estate in Effurun and handed over to the Ekpan Police Divisional Headquarters in Uvwie Local Government Area.
Delta State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, disclosed the arrests during a press briefing on Wednesday.
The suspects were identified as members of a notorious cybercrime syndicate called “HK” (Hustle Kingdom), which functions as a training school for young men between the ages of 17 and 25.
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SP Edafe revealed that many of the young men were lured into the syndicate under the false pretence of learning forex trading, but instead were taught fraudulent practices.
“Many of these young men were lured into this group because of their desire for quick wealth. Some have been in the HK School for over three months without contacting their families,” he said.
The police spokesman also expressed concern over the lack of parental involvement, noting, “I wonder why parents do not report to the police when their children go missing for extended periods. Most of these problems are as a result of poor parenting.”
During the raid, it was gathered that the group’s handlers had confiscated the recruits’ phones, locking them inside the building and feeding them only once a day.
SP Edafe explained that the suspects, hailing from various states including Kaduna, Kwara, Lagos, Anambra, Kogi, and Benue, were arrested along with four drivers hired to transport them, though the drivers were later released after confirming their lack of involvement in the criminal activities.
He said all the 123 suspects are set to be charged to court.
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