How the EFCC's Latest Arrests Uncover a Web of Internet Fraudsters in Akwa Ibom

In Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, agents of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have detained no less than 17 suspected online scammers.

Dele Oyewale, the EFCC's Head of Media and Publicity, said in a statement issued Monday night that the suspects were captured after an intelligence-driven sting operation between April 11 and 14, 2025.

The text of the statement is:

"In Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, 17 suspected online scammers have been taken into custody by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) Uyo Zonal Directorate operations."

Among the suspects are:

Nchekwube Paul (23), Raphael James (29), Chimobi Moses (29), Edara Ubong (21), Samuel Asuquo (28), Osita Emmanuel (25), Saint Johnson (20), and Peter Lucky (26).

The others are: Goodnews Ita (23), Kennedy Etim Okokon (29), Igwe Greg (30), Sunday Umoh (24), Michael Ekerette Sunday (25), Christopher Edet (32), Amadi Justice (27), Patrick Ahiakwo (30), and Happiness Anietie Michael (23).

Use-Offot Nwaniba, Urua Ekpa, Ring Road 3, Ikot Ekpene Road, Calabar-Itu Road, and the Mechanic Village were among the places in Uyo where they were taken into custody.

26 smartphones, three laptops, and four cars—a black Lexus 350 (BWR-36LN), a metallic grey Toyota Corolla (KTE-687EP), a white Lexus IS 250 (ABJ-739AV), and a black Mercedes GLE (FST-863JS)—were found among the suspects.

The EFCC stated that after the investigations are over, the suspects will face charges in court.