The Zone 2 Police Command in Lagos State has apprehended two individuals connected to a syndicate responsible for hacking no fewer than 1000 bank accounts in Nigeria.
According to SP Hauwa Idris-Adamu, the command’s spokesperson, the suspects, who specialized in hacking local banks, were captured at their hideout in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, following a petition filed by the United Bank for Africa.
Adesina Abiodun (41) and Yusuf Ademola (40) have been named as the suspects (50). Other participants in the illicit activity are being vigorously sought by authorities.
Idris-Adamu provided the following explanation in a statement: “On May 8, 2023, the United Bank for Africa submitted a petition to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, reporting the existence of syndicates specializing in internet fraud targeting various banks in Nigeria, with a particular emphasis on United Bank for Africa. These thieves illegally enter the accounts of their victims and transfer money.”
In response to the appeal, a team of detectives from the Zonal Monitoring Unit sprang into action and successfully tracked down the two suspects in their hiding place in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, with the use of cutting-edge technology.
The accused admitted their involvement in the crimes during questioning and disclosed the existence of numerous syndicates working throughout Nigeria. They acknowledged breaking into consumers’ accounts using specialist software and secretly transferring money from whichever bank they choose. Their operating method entailed having access to a customer’s phone number that was linked to their BVN and bank alerts, facilitating simple money transfers.
Idris-Adamu disclosed that “over 1000 customer accounts have been hacked and defrauded nationwide.” Further investigation has revealed that syndicate members are based in various regions of the country.
Law enforcement authorities are diligently working to apprehend all individuals associated with the criminal network.
“In the meantime, the investigation is still ongoing, and upon its completion, the suspects will be arraigned in court,” added Idris-Adamu.
