EFCC nabs 17 suspected internet fraudsters in Uyo

No fewer than 17 suspected internet fraudsters have been apprehended by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State.

The arrests, carried out on April 11 and 14, 2025, followed a coordinated, intelligence-driven sting operation, according to a statement released Monday evening by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale.

“Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 17 suspected internet fraudsters in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State,” the statement confirmed.

The suspects, aged between 20 and 32, include Osita Emmanuel (25), Saint Johnson (20), Peter Lucky (26), Samuel Asuquo (28), Raphael James (29), Chimobi Moses (29), Edara Ubong (21), Nchekwube Paul (23), Happiness Anietie Michael (23), Christopher Edet (32), Amadi Justice (27), Patrick Ahiakwo (30), Sunday Umoh (24), Michael Ekerette Sunday (25), Kennedy Etim Okokon (29), Igwe Greg (30), and Goodnews Ita (23).

They were picked up across several locations in Uyo, including Use-Offot Nwaniba, Urua Ekpa, Ring Road 3, Ikot Ekpene Road, Calabar-Itu Road, and the Mechanic Village.

Recovered items include 26 smartphones, three laptops, and four vehicles: a white Lexus IS 250 (ABJ-739AV), a metallic grey Toyota Corolla (KTE-687EP), a black Lexus 350 (BWR-36LN), and a black Mercedes GLE (FST-863JS).

The EFCC stated that the suspects will be formally charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.