Nigeria arrests 792 in raid on crypto scam operation
Among those arrested were 148 Chinese citizens
Nigerian authorities report major success in fighting crypto scams
During a raid on Victoria Island in Lagos, Nigerian law enforcement arrested a total of 792 employees of a local call center that lured victims into investing their savings in the fraudulent platform www.yooto.com, with an initial activation fee starting at $35.
Among those detained were numerous foreign nationals, including 148 Chinese citizens, 40 Filipinos, and individuals from other countries who trained locals in fraudulent schemes.
Well-organized operation
The foreign nationals trained Nigerian recruits to create fake profiles and attract victims through platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram.
Recruits were selected based on computer skills and typing proficiency. After a two-week introductory course, they were equipped to lure victims to the scam platform, with the withdrawal of clients’ funds handled by more experienced foreigners. Payments to Nigerian accomplices were made in cash or via personal accounts.
During the raid, investigators seized over 500 SIM cards, mobile phones, and computer equipment used to target victims in North America, Europe, and other regions. Charges will be filed against the suspects after the investigation is completed.
Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase shares interesting data about requests received from law enforcement agencies and government institutions related to illegal activities of its clients.
