The Zone 2 Police Command in Lagos has apprehended two young men, Elvis (23) and Kelly (24), suspected of orchestrating international fraud schemes involving forged foreign academic certificates.
The suspects allegedly used these counterfeit documents to deceive victims online, amassing significant wealth, including luxury cars and properties across Nigeria.
Acting on credible intelligence, detectives from the Anti-Corruption Unit tracked the duo to a luxury hotel in Lekki, Lagos. Upon arrest, a search revealed forged certificates from institutions such as Blue Crest College and Academic City College in Ghana. The suspects confessed to procuring these fake documents through a Nigerian accomplice residing in Ghana, paying a total of 26,000 Ghanaian Cedis for the forgeries.
During interrogation, the suspects attempted to bribe the officers with ₦66 million to secure their release. Demonstrating commendable integrity, the officers rejected the bribe and proceeded with the investigation. This incident follows a similar case in November, where the same police command refused a bribe of ₦174 million from another suspect attempting to evade justice.
The actions of the Zone 2 Police Command are particularly noteworthy given the challenges of corruption within Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies. According to a 2010 report by Human Rights Watch, corrupt and unprofessional practices by the Nigerian police have severely undermined the integrity of the criminal justice system.
By refusing substantial bribes and arresting individuals involved in sophisticated fraud schemes, the Zone 2 Command sets a positive example in the fight against corruption and cybercrime. Their actions not only bring perpetrators to justice but also serve as a deterrent to others engaged in similar activities.
Nigeria has long been associated with various forms of online fraud, often referred to as “Yahoo Yahoo” or “Yahoo boys,” involving schemes ranging from romance scams to advanced fee fraud. In a related development, hundreds of individuals were recently arrested in Lagos for their involvement in crypto-romance scams, highlighting the pervasive nature of cybercrime in the country.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been actively involved in combating such crimes, conducting raids and arrests to dismantle these fraudulent networks. The collaboration between various law enforcement agencies underscores Nigeria’s commitment to addressing cybercrime and restoring its international reputation.
The recent arrest of international fraudsters and the rejection of a ₦66 million bribe by the Zone 2 Police Command in Lagos represent a significant victory in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against corruption and cybercrime. Such actions reinforce the importance of integrity within law enforcement and demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law. Continued efforts in this direction are essential for building public trust and ensuring a safer digital environment for all.
