EFCC Arrests 200 ‘Yahoo Boys’ In One Month

In a startling revelation, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday disclosed that it had arrested no fewer than 200 internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo Boys” in October alone.

Acting Chairman of EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, who revealed this during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, said the Instagram celebrity, Mompha and his Lebanese accomplice, Hamza Koudeih are so far the biggest catch of the commission.

He said the suspects, who were “kingpins of an Organised Cyber Syndicate Network,” allegedly laundered a total of N33bn.

Magu said: “Five wristwatches valued at over N60m were recovered from Mompha at the point of arrest.

“Investigation has also revealed that he operates 51 bank accounts in Nigeria with which he acquired properties in Dubai and had laundered about N14bn through Ismalob Global Investments Limited.

“His accomplice, Koudeih, also has two firms namely: THK Services Limited and CHK properties Limited with which he has allegedly laundered about N19bn.

“Koudeih lives in a N5m per annum suite at the Eko Atlantic Pearl Tower, Victoria Island Lagos.’’

While noting that the arrests have proved that the agency is committed to the fight against corruption and economic crimes, Magu said there were also clear messages to “high end fraudsters that they can only run, but cannot hide, sooner than later, we will get them”.

“The effort to flush out all fraudsters continues. At the same time, we will sustain the tempo of vigorous prosecution of fraud cases in court.

“Indeed, fraudsters account for a huge percentage of the 890 convictions that has been recorded by the commission this year.

“A number of assets have been seized, while victims have also enjoyed restitution by order of court,” he said.

He noted that though the battle “is far from being won”, the anti-graft boss renewed his appeal for the support of stakeholders, especially the media, for the commission.

Magu said the youths, who were mostly involved in cyber fraud, needed sensitisation to the consequences of their actions not only to their future but to the nation’s image and economy.

He restated the commission’s resolve to rehabilitate those ready to turn a new leaf, and help them to put their skills to good use.

“The youth must learn the virtues of integrity and hard work as the path to sustainable wealth.

“They must realise that crime does not pay; rather it will destroy their prospects and ruin their chances of decent living.

“For those who are remorseful and prepared to turn a new leaf, the commission is fully disposed to help in channeling their energies and cyber skills to positive venture.

“We are considering a policy that will help in the rehabilitation of convicted, but repentant Internet fraudsters.

“This is to ensure that their skills are positively applied in helping to build a better Nigerian society,” Magu said.