Nigeria Police Foil Massive Telecom Data Scam, Recover Stolen Funds and Assets

The Nigeria Police Force has made significant strides in combating cybercrime, particularly in the telecommunications sector. Through the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre, the force has been investigating a complex case of computer-related fraud, unauthorized access to computer systems, and theft of telecom services. The investigation was sparked by a complaint from a leading telecommunications service provider, which alleged that its staff login credentials had been compromised and used for unauthorized purposes. Preliminary findings revealed that between October 1 and November 28, 2024, the suspects had gained unlawful access to the company's network billing infrastructure, generating airtime that was later converted to data bundles. These data bundles were then distributed and sold through various vendors across the country. The police investigation led to the arrest of several suspects and the recovery of over 400 laptops, 1,000 mobile phones, POS machines, cash exhibits, and other relevant materials. The telecommunications provider was also able to reverse approximately 2,931.79 terabytes of fraudulently obtained data, valued at about N3.8 billion. Further investigation revealed the involvement of both insiders and external collaborators. In a second wave of operations conducted in May 2026, police operatives carried out coordinated raids in Kano, Katsina, and Zamfara States, leading to the arrest of key suspects, including Musa Muhammed Kwandi, Nura Sadauki, and Aminu Muhammed. Other suspects arrested in connection with the investigation include Musa Hassan Mohammed, an IT specialist, Samson Alisigwe, and Yusuf Shehu, all of whom are believed to have benefited from the proceeds of the fraudulent activities. Through sustained financial investigation and asset tracing, the police recovered almost N90,000,000, including two residential houses in Kano State, a mini-plaza, and a Toyota RAV4 vehicle, all of which are part of the proceeds of the crime. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to protecting the nation's critical digital infrastructure and combating cybercrime in all its forms. Members of the public with relevant information are encouraged to contact the NPF-NCCC through its e-reporting portal or official social media channels.