A cybercriminal recently hacked into the Enugu State Government’s financial system and stole a huge sum of ₦1,097,700,300. This shocking incident has raised concerns about cyber security in public institutions.

Quick Police Action

The Nigeria Police Force-National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) quickly stepped in to track the hacker and recover the stolen money. Their efforts ensured the funds were returned to the state government.

Arrest of the Hacker

The police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the arrest of the suspect, identified as Onuma Osita. He stated that the stolen funds, worth $754,977, have been fully recovered and returned.

Items Recovered from the Crime

During the investigation, 14 land documents and many electronic devices were seized. The recovered items include 467 phones, 137 laptops, 46 routers, 28 desktops, 4 servers, 4 Starlink devices, and a drone, all believed to be linked to the crime.

The police also apprehended another suspect, Douglass Victor, connected to a cybercrime syndicate involved in identity theft, email fraud, and money laundering. The group, allegedly led by Diepreye Samuel, focused on hacking emails to steal money from individuals and businesses.

Victor confessed to stealing email credentials, disrupting official communications, and diverting funds to the syndicate. This confession highlights the sophisticated techniques cybercriminals use to carry out their crimes.