Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested four suspects for unauthorised access to banks’ computer systems.
The suspects were also accused of fraudulently withdrawing depositors’ funds.
The arrested individuals include the leader of the syndicate, identified as Chima Nwigwe, along with Effiong Emmanuel, Mohammed Mahmud—the Managing Director of Downstone Ultimate Limited—and Damian Ali.
The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
Oyewale said the suspects were arrested 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 Daminan 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.”
He stated that the suspects would be taken to court once the investigations are concluded.
