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EFCC Busts Notorious Internet ‘Picker’ in $300,000 Fraud Ring

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By Patrick Idowu

In a major crackdown on cybercrime, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested a key player in a transnational fraud syndicate, popularly known in internet scam circles as a “picker” or “azaman.” The suspect is accused of laundering over $300,000 on behalf of fugitive accomplices.

The EFCC, in a statement on Tuesday, revealed that the arrest was part of a sting operation conducted on Sunday, May 4, 2025, in the Sabo Iyako area of Auchi, Edo State. Thirty-five suspects were taken into custody following credible intelligence on their involvement in widespread online scams.

While the agency did not disclose the suspect’s identity, it confirmed his deep involvement in not just cyber fraud, but also in banking and investment fraud schemes that targeted unsuspecting victims.

“The suspect has collected and laundered over $300,000 for his syndicate members who are currently at large,” said Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson. “He will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded.”

The arrest underscores the Commission’s renewed offensive against digital financial crimes, with law enforcement tightening the noose around the masterminds behind internet fraud networks across the country.

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Crime

EFCC Storms Lagos, Nabs 120 for Internet Scam

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By Njoku Chijioke

In a sweeping crackdown on cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested 120 suspected internet fraudsters in Lagos.

The suspects include 95 men and 25 women. According to the commission, the arrests followed credible intelligence and days of covert surveillance.

Items recovered during the raid include exotic vehicles, mobile phones, and laptops, all believed to be proceeds of online fraud.

The anti-graft agency stated that investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of preliminary findings.

The EFCC reaffirmed its resolve to confront cybercrime and other financial offenses head-on, vowing not to relent in its mission to cleanse the system.

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Crime

Gunmen Attack Pasuma’s Convoy

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By Adenike Lawal

Fear gripped residents of Ikire in Osun State on Sunday afternoon as armed men launched a daring daylight attack on the convoy of Fuji star, Alhaji Wasiu Alabi, popularly known as Pasuma.

The attack occurred in the Irewole axis of the town as Pasuma’s black Hummer SUV and a white Hilux pickup were ambushed by suspected thugs.

The vehicles were pelted with stones and reportedly came under gunfire, sending bystanders fleeing for safety.

A video from the scene, now viral on social media, captured the moment of chaos.

In the clip, a shaken voice cried out in Pidgin English, “Kasala don burst for Ikire. They don attack us. They carry gun shoot us but God dey.”

Pasuma was in town for a performance and is believed to have escaped unhurt.

However, details surrounding his visit and the motive behind the attack remain sketchy.

The incident forced shops to shut down temporarily while residents expressed deep worry over rising insecurity.

As of press time, efforts to reach the singer’s team proved abortive, and the Osun State Police Command had yet to release an official statement.

The brazen nature of the assault has triggered alarm across the region, highlighting concerns over safety during celebrity visits and public gatherings.

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Crime

Ekpa Faces Terror Charges in Finland Over Biafra Campaign

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By Adenike Lawal

Simon Ekpa, a dual citizen of Nigeria and Finland, is facing serious criminal charges in Finland for allegedly inciting terrorism linked to his pro-Biafra agitation.

Finland’s National Prosecution Authority confirmed that a Finnish national has been charged with publicly inciting crimes with terrorist intent and allegedly participating in a terrorist organization.

Though unnamed in the official statement, multiple reports from YLE, Finland’s public broadcaster, and Nigerian sources identify the suspect as Ekpa.

The charges cover a period from 2021 to 2024 and focus on activities traced to the city of Lahti.

Authorities allege Ekpa used digital platforms to encourage unrest in Nigeria’s southeast under the banner of Biafra independence.

Ekpa, who styles himself as leader of the so-called Biafra Republic Government in Exile, is linked to a faction of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra.

Nigerian authorities accuse him of fueling violence through broadcasts that have incited attacks on civilians and public institutions.

Though Ekpa was detained in November 2024 and remains in custody, he denies all allegations.

Four others earlier suspected of funding terrorism were released due to insufficient evidence.

This case highlights the growing challenge of policing cross-border extremism driven by online influence and diaspora activism.

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