The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a 35-year-old man, identified as Hyginus Nkwocha, for his alleged involvement in internet fraud and money laundering. The arrest took place in Abuja, the nation’s capital, as part of ongoing efforts by the EFCC to combat the rising wave of cybercrime in the country.
Nkwocha, who has been described as a ‘young billionaire’ due to his lavish lifestyle, was apprehended at Ever Green Estate, which is located behind Millennium Estate in the Lugbe area of Abuja. His arrest followed intelligence gathered by the EFCC, which pointed towards his alleged engagement in illegal activities involving internet fraud and laundering of large sums of money.
The operation that led to Nkwocha’s arrest was conducted by the EFCC’s team, and several luxury items were confiscated from him. Among the items seized were various high-end electronic gadgets and expensive jewelry.
The list of recovered items includes $2,200 in cash, an iPhone 15 Pro Max, a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, a Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, an iPhone 13 Pro Max, and a MacBook.
The suspect was also found to be in possession of several gold items, including a gold chain and pendant, a gold bracelet, and another gold neck chain, all of which were seized as part of the investigation.
In addition to the personal items recovered, the EFCC also confiscated a number of luxury cars that belonged to Nkwocha. These vehicles include a Mercedes Benz ML 350, a Chevrolet Camaro, and a Mustang car. These vehicles are believed to have been purchased with proceeds from the suspect’s alleged fraudulent activities.
Furthermore, the EFCC seized properties linked to Nkwocha in various locations across Nigeria. These properties are located in high-end areas such as Cookies Court 2 in Ocean Palm Estate, Ajah, Lagos; Unit C8 in Lugbe, along Airport Road in Abuja; and Cookies Court 2, 2nd Avenue, Ocean Palm Estate, Ogombo in Lagos State. These properties are also believed to have been acquired through the illegal proceeds from internet fraud and money laundering schemes.
Dele Oyewale, the Head of Media and Publicity for the EFCC, confirmed the arrest of Nkwocha and the recovery of the assets. Speaking about the case, Oyewale stated that the EFCC is committed to curbing internet fraud and money laundering in the country, and that the arrest of the ‘young billionaire’ is part of the agency’s wider effort to track down individuals who are involved in such illegal activities.
“The suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded,” Oyewale said, indicating that the EFCC will continue with its investigation before formally pressing charges against Nkwocha.
