Police Uncover ₦7.7bn Telecom Fraud, Arrest Six Suspects in Major Cybercrime Case
Police Uncover ₦7.7 Billion Telecom Fraud, Arrest Six Suspects
The Nigeria Police Force has uncovered a massive telecommunications fraud valued at approximately ₦7.7 billion, leading to the arrest of six suspects believed to be behind the illegal diversion of airtime and data resources belonging to a major telecom operator.
The operation was carried out by detectives attached to the National Cybercrime Centre (NCCC) following a formal complaint from a telecommunications company that noticed unusual losses within its billing and distribution systems.
According to police findings, the telecom firm detected persistent discrepancies in its airtime and data balances, prompting an internal review. The audit revealed that its digital systems had been compromised, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive platforms used for allocating airtime and data services.
Investigations showed that the suspects allegedly exploited compromised login credentials and internal loopholes to reroute large volumes of airtime and data for personal gain, resulting in losses estimated at ₦7.7 billion over time.
After weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance, police operatives arrested six individuals linked to the fraud network. During coordinated raids, investigators recovered a large cache of items believed to have been used in carrying out the operation.
Recovered exhibits include:
- Hundreds of laptops and mobile phones
- Several SIM cards and digital devices
- Vehicles and residential properties allegedly acquired with proceeds of the fraud
- Financial records tracing illicit funds through multiple bank accounts
The police said the scale of the recovered items suggests a well-organised operation rather than a lone-actor crime.
Police authorities confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation. Further investigations are being conducted to determine:
- Whether insiders within the telecom company were involved
- The full extent of financial losses
- Possible links to wider cybercrime networks
Additional arrests are not ruled out as detectives continue to analyze digital evidence.
You can also read: Suspected Internet Fraudster Arrested Over Friend’s Death in Delta State: https://everydaystorynetwork.blogspot.com/2026/01/suspected-yahoo-boy-arrested-for.html
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to protecting the country’s digital infrastructure and warned that cyber-enabled crimes, especially those targeting critical sectors like telecommunications, will be aggressively pursued.
The police also urged organisations to strengthen internal cybersecurity measures and advised members of the public to avoid engaging in cyber fraud, noting that such crimes carry severe legal consequences.
Once investigations are concluded, the suspects are expected to be formally charged to court. The police said recovered assets may be forfeited pending the outcome of legal proceedings.


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