INTERPOL’s Major Operation in Nigeria Yields 36 Arrests and $3M Recovery
INTERPOL and Nigerian law enforcement arrested 36 suspects in a recent operation targeting fraud and human trafficking, recovering $3 million. Key activities included arrests for sextortion and cyber fraud, with significant seizures of drugs and identification of victims. Cyril Gout emphasized the need for ongoing collaborative efforts to address the threats posed by organized crime.
In a significant crackdown on organized crime, INTERPOL, in collaboration with 12 Nigerian law enforcement agencies, arrested 36 suspects involved in fraud and human trafficking. The operation, which lasted five days, culminated in the recovery of $3 million and various exhibits, showcasing the extensive efforts made against these criminal activities.
Among the arrests, three individuals were detected for alleged sextortion. The majority of the detainees were linked to cyber-enabled fraud, highlighting a concerning trend where young adults, primarily under 35, are increasingly becoming involved in these crimes. Tactics used by the criminals included ‘romance baiting’, investment scams, and impersonating celebrities to exploit victims’ trust.
The operation also yielded considerable seizures, including 19 kilograms of cocaine valued at $2.8 million, 51 kilograms of cannabis, and various vehicles and weapons. Moreover, 12 victims of human trafficking were identified, revealing a disturbing practice where individuals were misled with job offers abroad, only to face sexual exploitation or forced labor upon arrival.
Notably, a female recruiter was apprehended during the operation for posing as a victim to avoid detection, alongside the seizure of $16,000 from her account. This incident sheds light on the depth of deception used within trafficking networks.
Cyril Gout, INTERPOL’s acting Executive Director of Police Services, emphasized the aggressive nature of West African organized crime groups. These groups engage in diverse illegal methods, including human trafficking, cybercrime, and money laundering, which necessitates substantial multi-agency collaboration to disrupt their operations effectively.
The recent INTERPOL operation in Nigeria demonstrates the critical need for coordinated efforts among law enforcement to combat organized crime effectively. The arrests and seizures highlight the dangers posed by cyber fraud and human trafficking, particularly among youth. Continuous collaboration at both national and international levels remains vital to addressing and dismantling these criminal networks.
Original Source: punchng.com
