The Nigeria Police Force, through the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), has made significant breakthroughs in the investigation of a major cybercrime syndicate linked to telecom data fraud valued at over ₦7.7 billion.
The investigation was launched following a complaint from a leading telecommunications company alleging the compromise and unauthorized use of staff login credentials. Preliminary findings revealed that between October 1 and November 28, 2024, the suspects illegally accessed the company’s network billing infrastructure and fraudulently generated airtime, which was subsequently converted into data bundles.
Investigators disclosed that the illegally acquired data bundles were distributed and sold through an extensive network of vendors operating across the country.
During the course of the investigation, operatives arrested several suspects and recovered more than 400 laptops, 1,000 mobile phones, POS machines, cash exhibits, and other incriminating materials. The affected telecommunications provider was also able to reverse approximately 2,931.79 terabytes of fraudulently obtained data, valued at about ₦3.8 billion.
Further investigations uncovered the involvement of both insiders within the telecom company and external collaborators. Acting on actionable intelligence, NPF-NCCC operatives conducted a second wave of coordinated operations in May 2026 across Kano, Katsina, and Zamfara States, leading to the arrest of key suspects, including Musa Muhammed Kwandi, Nura Sadauki, and Aminu Muhammed.
Other individuals arrested in connection with the scheme include IT specialist Musa Hassan Mohammed, Samson Alisigwe, and Yusuf Shehu, all of whom are believed to have benefited from the proceeds of the fraudulent operation.
Through extensive financial investigations and asset-tracing efforts, the police recovered nearly ₦90 million in cash, alongside assets suspected to be proceeds of the crime. These include two residential houses in Kano State, a mini-plaza, and a Toyota RAV4 vehicle.
The NPF-NCCC stated that investigations remain ongoing to identify additional accomplices, trace further criminal proceeds, and ensure the prosecution of all individuals found culpable.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s critical digital infrastructure and intensifying efforts to combat cybercrime in all its forms.
Members of the public with relevant information are encouraged to report through the NPF-NCCC e-reporting portal or its official social media platforms.
