Police Uncover ₦7.7 Billion Telecom Fraud, Arrest Multiple Suspects
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against cybercrime following the arrest of several suspects linked to a massive telecom fraud scheme valued at approximately ₦7.7 billion.
The operation was carried out by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) after a leading telecommunications company reported the unauthorized access and misuse of staff login credentials within its network infrastructure.
Investigators discovered that between October and November 2024, the suspects allegedly infiltrated the company's billing system and fraudulently generated airtime which was later converted into data bundles. The illegally obtained data was reportedly distributed and sold through a network of vendors across different parts of the country.
During the investigation, security operatives recovered more than 400 laptops, about 1,000 mobile phones, Point of Sale (POS) machines, cash exhibits and other items believed to be connected to the fraudulent operation. The affected telecom provider was also able to reverse nearly 2,932 terabytes of fraudulently acquired data valued at about ₦3.8 billion.
Further investigations revealed the involvement of both internal collaborators and external accomplices. Acting on intelligence, police operatives conducted coordinated raids across Kano, Katsina and Zamfara States in May 2026, leading to the arrest of key suspects identified as Musa Muhammed Kwandi, Nura Sadauki and Aminu Muhammed.
Other individuals arrested in connection with the case include Musa Hassan Mohammed, described as an IT specialist, alongside Samson Alisigwe and Yusuf Shehu, who investigators believe benefited from the proceeds of the alleged crime.
Through financial tracking and asset recovery efforts, the police recovered nearly ₦90 million in cash, two residential properties in Kano State, a mini-plaza and a Toyota RAV4 vehicle believed to have been acquired from proceeds of the fraud.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing as efforts continue to identify additional suspects, recover more assets and ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical digital infrastructure and combating cybercrime across the country.