Marcel’s Encounter:
On a tip-off about suspected fraudsters in an estate in Lugbe, EFCC officials stormed a compound, causing a commotion that woke 26-year-old Marcel. Seeing the EFCC van and hearing the officials move into his neighbor’s apartment, Marcel, an internet fraudster, quickly hid his phone, which he used for scams, in a toilet pipe.
During the raid, EFCC officers searched Marcel’s room and demanded his phone. Despite Marcel’s attempts to lie, they noticed his phone charger and slapped him when he denied owning a phone. However, they failed to find the hidden phone. Marcel later called his mother, Bridget, who prayed for his protection from the authorities.
**The Rise of Internet Fraudsters:**
Internet fraudsters, known as Yahoo boys or G-boys, make a living by scamming people online. They use terms like “bombing” (finding a victim online) and “grinding” (chatting with a victim). These fraudsters have shifted from phishing scams to elderly fraud, fake job scams, and romance scams. Social media platforms like Meta have removed thousands of accounts linked to these scammers.
**EFCC’s Crackdown:**
The EFCC has been actively raiding locations based on intelligence reports, arresting numerous suspects and seizing luxury items. The EFCC chairman noted that significant financial losses have led to international companies shutting down Nigerian operations due to local wire fraud.
**Fraudsters’ Tactics:**
To avoid detection, many fraudsters disguise their identities, live modestly, and adopt various tactics. Some pose as professionals or business owners, while others engage in legitimate-looking activities to conceal their illegal operations. Cryptocurrency has also become a cover for fraudulent activities.
**Community and Religious Involvement:**
Many Yahoo boys seek spiritual protection through personal prayers, family members, or religious clerics. Some parents support their children’s activities, forming groups to strategize and seek spiritual assistance. Economic hardship and unemployment drive many youths into cybercrime, seeking quick wealth.
**Conclusion:**
The EFCC continues its efforts to combat internet fraud, but the issue persists due to various factors, including economic challenges and the evolving tactics of fraudsters. The involvement of communities and religious institutions highlights the complex social dynamics behind this criminal activity.
