The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered and dismantled an illegal internet fraud training facility, commonly known as a “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of Lagos.

According to the command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, four principal suspects were arrested alongside six trainees, including a 12-year-old boy, Minachi Udochukwu. The alleged masterminds behind the operation were identified as Chibuike Ihejika, 23; Stanley Ihejika, 22; Obiora Oyediba, 26; and Emmanuel Oyedibe, 25.

The six trainees included Okorie Henry, Otoh Chisom (20), Okeke Kwufrochikwu (26), Uchenna Obeji (26), Minachi Udochukwu (12), and Chinedu Ukachukwu (23). Investigations revealed that the suspects recruited trainees from Anambra State, coerced them into internet fraud, and confiscated their illicit earnings.

Udochukwu, the youngest trainee, was found with healing injury marks allegedly inflicted by the principal suspect to force him into cybercrime. He is currently receiving medical care and has been placed in protective custody until his family is located.

Meanwhile, the police have ordered the owner of the facility to report to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). All suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The police have urged parents to monitor their children’s activities to prevent them from being lured into criminal enterprises. Victims of the syndicate’s fraudulent activities have been encouraged to report to the SCID, Yaba.

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, praised the officers involved in the operation and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling cybercrime and other illegal activities.