IBY
Peterside Rejoice Eneky
The Nigeria Police Force’s cybercrime division, known as the ‘Cyber Hawks,’ has successfully dismantled 5,049 malicious domains and cyber networks, disrupting major cybercrime operations both within Nigeria and internationally in 2024.
This extensive effort has led to 752 arrests and prosecutions of individuals involved in cybercrime, with 685 devices seized, including 467 mobile phones, 137 laptops and computers, 46 routers, 4 servers, a drone, and 4 Starlink devices.
Police spokesperson ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, alongside CP Ifeanyi Henry Uche, head of the Cyber Hawks, made the announcement. They revealed that the operation also resulted in the confiscation of 16 houses, 39 plots of land, 14 land documents, and 26 vehicles.
In total, 508 cybercrime cases were reported, with notable incidents including sextortion and cyberstalking. The unit also secured 14 convictions and recovered significant assets: N8.82 billion, 115,237.91 USDT, and $84,000, which have been returned to the victims.
ACP Adejobi praised the year’s achievements, highlighting the substantial progress made in combating cybercrime.
He noted that, newly upgraded Cybercrime E-Reporting System, which was relaunched in early 2024 to improve citizens’ ability to report incidents such as extortion, investment fraud, and cyberstalking. The system’s enhancements have resulted in faster response times and more efficient case handling.
Throughout the year, the Nigeria Police Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) also led a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at educating the public about online safety. This initiative included workshops, seminars, and online resources designed to raise awareness about emerging cyber threats and the importance of reporting them.
Adejobi concluded, “The Centre remains committed to securing Nigeria’s digital space and protecting citizens from the growing menace of cybercrime.”
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