Police in Lagos Apprehend Three Suspects in Major Cybercrime and Cultism Crackdown
Operatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 2 headquarters in Onikan, Lagos, have successfully arrested three individuals involved in a wide range of criminal activities, including criminal conspiracy, cybercrime, forgery, impersonation, and cult-related offenses. This operation marks a significant advancement in the ongoing battle against fraud and illicit operations within Lagos State, under the vigilant leadership of Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) Olohundare Moshood Jimoh.
Targeted Operation Leads to Arrests Based on Credible Intelligence
According to official reports, detectives attached to the Zonal Intelligence Department (ZID) acted on credible intelligence received on January 7, 2026. A precision operation conducted in the Lekki−Ajah axis of Lagos resulted in the apprehension of Tega Emmanuel, aged 24, Jacob Olatunde, aged 33, and Gift Okubakpere, aged 36. DSP Afolayan Gbenga, the Police Public Relations Officer for Zone 2, provided details, stating that Tega Emmanuel was intercepted while driving a Porsche vehicle along Chevron Drive. Emmanuel promptly confessed to his involvement in various cybercrime activities during the initial encounter.
Subsequent searches of Emmanuel's residence led to the arrests of Jacob Olatunde and Gift Okubakpere, expanding the scope of the investigation and uncovering a more extensive criminal network.
Suspects Confess to Coordinated Roles in Cyber Fraud Operations
During intensive interrogations, the suspects admitted to their specific roles within the criminal syndicate. Tega Emmanuel coordinated cyber fraud schemes, including romance scams and the creation of fraudulent online accounts. Jacob Olatunde managed the financial aspects, overseeing illicit fund collections and transactions. Gift Okubakpere specialized in cryptocurrency-related scams, utilizing platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, online banking systems, and various crypto exchanges to execute fraudulent activities.
Extensive Exhibits Recovered from Suspects' Possession
The police recovery efforts yielded a substantial array of items linked to the alleged crimes, underscoring the sophistication of the operations. The recovered exhibits include:
- Three HP laptops and an Apple MacBook
- Two MacBook tablets and nine iPhones
- Six international passports and Lagos State vehicle number plates
- Three dealer plate numbers and military camouflage attire
- A mini printer and a toy gun reportedly used for skit production
- 98 suspected counterfeit $100 US notes
- Illicit drugs suspected to be Indian hemp, along with smoking paraphernalia
Investigations have been extended to relevant agencies to verify the authenticity of the suspected counterfeit currency and the nature of the illicit drugs, ensuring a thorough legal process.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Sustaining Anti-Crime Efforts
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police has assured the public that the suspects will face prosecution once investigations are concluded. DSP Gbenga emphasized ongoing efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate, stating, "Zone 2 Headquarters remains committed to sustaining the fight against fraud-related offences across Lagos and Ogun States." This arrest highlights the police's dedication to curbing cybercrime and cultism, reinforcing public safety and trust in law enforcement agencies.
