The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a secret internet fraud training center, commonly known as a “Yahoo School,” in the Iju area of Lagos, leading to the arrest of ten individuals, including a 12-year-old boy.
Four suspected fraud experts, allegedly running the illegal cybercrime academy, were caught alongside six trainees during a police raid. According to authorities, the suspects—aged between 20 and 26—were actively learning how to perpetrate internet scams.
Police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin revealed that preliminary investigations showed the ringleaders lured their recruits from Anambra State and forced them into online fraud. Even more disturbing, the so-called “trainers” reportedly seized all proceeds from the illicit activities of their trainees.
Hundeyin confirmed that all suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Yaba for further interrogation. He also issued a stern warning to the owner of the facility, ordering him to surrender to the police immediately or face severe consequences.
Meanwhile, the 12-year-old trainee, identified as Minachi Ugochukwu, is receiving medical attention after suffering injuries allegedly inflicted by the ringleaders to force him into fraud. Authorities are working to locate and reunite him with his family.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Owohunwa Jimoh, praised the officers involved in the operation and reiterated the force’s commitment to fighting cybercrime. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities in their neighborhoods.
This shocking discovery serves as a wake-up call for parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities to prevent them from being lured into criminal enterprises.
