Ninety foreign nationals have been detained by the Nigeria Immigration Service for their alleged involvement in cybercrime-related offenses. The apprehension of these foreigners was a collaborative effort between the Nigeria Immigration Service and other security agencies, with the operation taking place in Rivers State.
Y.I. Abdulmajeed, the Rivers State Comptroller of the Nigeria Immigration Service, confirmed the arrests in a statement released on Tuesday. He stated that the raid on the hideout of the suspects was prompted by intelligence reports regarding their illicit activities in the area.
Among the 94 individuals apprehended, four were Nigerians, while the remaining 90 were from neighboring countries, including 85 Cameroonians and five Chadians. According to Abdulmajeed, the suspects were engaged in cybercrimes aimed at defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians.
The Immigration Service revealed that all 90 foreigners entered the country through unauthorized means, failing to provide any valid residence or travel documents during their interrogation. Additionally, two Nigerian accomplices from Rivers State, who provided accommodation and served as landlords to the suspects, were also taken into custody.
Following the arrests, the Comptroller General of Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, has instructed a thorough investigation into the matter, with a focus on ensuring the swift prosecution of all individuals involved in the cybercrimes.
The detention of these foreign nationals highlights the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian government to combat cybercrime and protect its citizens from fraudulent activities. The collaboration between various security agencies demonstrates a united front in addressing such criminal activities and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.
It is crucial for authorities to continue monitoring and addressing cybercrimes to safeguard the digital security of individuals and businesses in the country. The prevalence of cybercrimes poses a significant threat to the economy and national security, making it imperative for law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant in their efforts to combat such offenses.
The swift action taken by the Nigeria Immigration Service in apprehending these suspects sends a strong message that cybercrimes will not be tolerated, and those found guilty will face the full force of the law. As investigations into the matter progress, it is hoped that further measures will be put in place to prevent and deter future cybercrime activities in the country.