The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 21 suspected cybercrime fraudsters during a sting operation at Applewood Estate, Orchid Road, Lekki, Lagos State, recovering five exotic cars in the process.
The operation, conducted at about 5 a.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, was carried out by operatives of the commission’s Lagos Directorate 1 as part of efforts to apprehend individuals allegedly involved in online fraud using gift cards, cryptocurrencies and international money transfers.
According to the EFCC, the suspects allegedly obtained money from unsuspecting victims by impersonating various individuals.
The commission said the operation followed diligent pre-arrest surveillance and reconnaissance of the suspects’ activities, adding that the exercise was professionally conducted.
In a statement on Tuesday on the operation, the EFCC disclosed that preliminary investigations had implicated 19 of the 21 suspects arrested, while the remaining two had been released.
It added that the 19 suspects found to have cases to answer would be arraigned in court immediately.
The commission also addressed the circumstances surrounding the detention of a young woman during the operation.
According to the EFCC, the woman allegedly attempted to alert the suspected fraudsters by making telephone calls while the operation was ongoing. She was subsequently held, and her phone was temporarily confiscated until the conclusion of the operation.
The agency, however, stated that the phone was returned to her after the operation.
The EFCC maintained that the sting operation was conducted professionally, insisting that there was no harassment, intimidation or unlawful arrest during the exercise.
Reaffirming its commitment to combating economic and financial crimes and other acts of corruption, the commission urged Nigerians to support its efforts and condemn activities that undermine the country’s reputation.
It also called on members of the public to remain committed to the fight against cybercrime, which continues to pose challenges to Nigeria’s image and international business relationships.
The commission said it remained open to constructive engagement with well-meaning Nigerians but warned that attempts to blackmail the agency or create unnecessary alarm would not be allowed to undermine its statutory responsibilities.