The Delta State Police Command has made a startling revelation by uncovering an internet fraud academy that enticed over 100 teenagers with deceptive promises of training in Bitcoin and forex trading. This shocking discovery came to light following the arrest of several suspects by soldiers from the 3rd Battalion of the Nigerian Army, who raided a suspect-laden estate in Warri.
The Arrest of Over 100 Suspected Fraudsters
On Wednesday, Bright Edafe, the Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Police Command, took to his X page to share the alarming details of the operation. He recounted how the teenagers, eager to learn about cryptocurrency and trading, arrived at what they believed was a legitimate academy, only to find themselves ensnared in a notorious cybercrime ring dubbed “Hustling Kingdom.” The facility, masquerading as a training center, was deeply engaged in illicit cyber activities, ultimately leading to the arrest of 123 individuals connected to the scheme.
How the Fraud Academy Was Exposed
The academy’s downfall began when one of the trapped teenagers managed to send a distress message to a family member using a laptop provided by the operators. Upon receiving the alarming call, the family promptly alerted military authorities, triggering a rapid response that resulted in the apprehension of the suspects. Most of those arrested were between the ages of 17 and 20, illustrating the vulnerable demographic targeted by this operation.
The Deceptive Modus Operandi of the Fraud Academy
According to Edafe, the fraudsters employed a cunning strategy to lure their victims. They utilized social media to flaunt ostentatious lifestyles and fake wealth, persuading young individuals from various states, including Kaduna, Akwa Ibom, and Ibadan, to join the fraudulent scheme under the guise of lucrative trading opportunities. Once the teenagers arrived at the estate, they were subjected to physical abuse and harsh living conditions, receiving food only sporadically, as the operators sought to maintain control over them.
Ongoing Investigations by Authorities
Despite the significant arrests, Edafe noted that efforts to determine whether the operators of the academy had been apprehended were still inconclusive. The police and military authorities are committed to a thorough investigation, working diligently to bring all individuals involved in this elaborate scam to justice. As investigations continue, the shocking nature of this operation serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that lurk online, particularly for the youth seeking opportunities in the digital economy.
Conclusion
This incident not only highlights the prevalence of cybercrime but also underscores the need for greater awareness and education among teenagers about the risks associated with online schemes promising quick financial gains.
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