Kehinde Fajobi
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have apprehended four suspects for allegedly gaining unauthorised access to banks’ computer systems and fraudulently withdrawing depositors’ funds.
The suspects include Chima Nwigwe, the alleged leader of the syndicate, along with Effiong Emmanuel, Mohammed Mahmud—Managing Director of Downstone Ultimate Limited—and Damian Ali.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale announced the arrests in a statement on Tuesday, revealing that the individuals were caught during a sting operation in Abuja.
He said, “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested Chima Anthony Nwigwe, the suspected leader of banks’ hacking syndicate alongside three others: Effiong Victor Emmanuel, Mohammed Bello Mahmud, managing director, Downstone Ultimate Limited, and Damian Ali for alleged conspiracy, unauthorised access to banks’ computer systems and fraudulent withdrawal of depositors’ funds.”
“They were arrested in a sting operation in Abuja following actionable intelligence about their suspected involvement in hacking, compromising databases of commercial banks, thereby causing fraudulent transfers and withdrawals through different digital platforms,” Oyewale added.
He confirmed that the suspects would be taken to court once investigations are concluded.