The Zone 2 Police Command, Lagos State has apprehended two individuals associated with a syndicate involved in hacking over 1000 bank accounts in Nigeria. The suspects, known for targeting local banks, were arrested at a hideout in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State following a new generation bank.
The spokesperson for the command, SP Hauwa Idris-Adamu, in a statement, said the suspects, Yusuf Ademola (40) and Adesina Abiodun (50), have been identified, and ongoing efforts aim to apprehend other individuals involved in the crime. A bank filed a petition to the Assistant Inspector General of Police on May 8, 2023, stating that there are syndicates specializing in internet fraud across various banks in Nigeria.
Following the petition, a team of detectives from the Zonal Monitoring Unit, aided by modern technology, acted swiftly and located the hideout of two suspects, Yusuf Ademola (40) and Adesina Abiodun (50), in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. The suspects admitted their involvement in the crime, revealing the existence of several syndicates across Nigeria.
They disclosed that they employ software to hack into customers’ accounts and transfer money discreetly from any desired bank. Their strategy relies on having access to a customer’s BVN-linked phone number and bank alerts, facilitating easy money transfers.
Idris-Adamu stated that more than 1000 customer accounts have been hacked and defrauded nationwide. The investigation into the matter uncovered that syndicate members originated from various regions of the country. She assured that efforts are underway to apprehend all individuals involved in the criminal activity. She further mentioned that the investigation is still in progress, and once completed, the suspects will be brought before the court for prosecution.