Headline: EFCC Arrests 26 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja, Two Women Charged for Valentine's Day Brawl

 Headline: EFCC Arrests 26 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja, Two Women Charged for Valentine's Day Brawl

Date: February 17, 2024

In a major operation, the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) apprehended 26 individuals believed to be involved in internet fraud. The arrests took place in various areas of the Federal Capital Territory, including Kurudu, Jahi, Kubwa, and Gwarimpa, following credible intelligence received by the anti-graft agency. The suspects were taken into custody on February 13, 2024.

The EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the arrests and stated that the agency had seized several items from the suspects. These items included luxury vehicles such as a Toyota Tacoma, a CLS Mercedes 450, and three Lexus cars, along with 40 phones and seven laptops. The seized assets serve as evidence in the ongoing investigation.

After the completion of the investigation, the suspects will face charges in court, as stated in the official statement released by the EFCC.

In a separate incident, two women, identified as Alice Odey (27) and Blessing Onagbulum (39), were charged by the police in New Karu, Nasarawa State, for engaging in a physical altercation on Valentine's Day. The charges against them include defamation of character, disturbance of public peace, and causing injury.

According to Inspector Shehu Ndam, the prosecution officer, the fight broke out when Onagbulum accused Odey of snatching her former husband, while Odey retaliated by accusing Onagbulum of using supernatural means to harm his private parts. During the brawl, Odey attacked Onagbulum with a broken bottle, causing injuries to her head, jaw, and neck. In response, Onagbulum's 16-year-old daughter struck Odey in the eye with a stone.

The accused women pleaded not guilty to the charges presented against them. They were remanded on bail, with each required to pay N100,000 and provide one surety of the same amount. Judge Godiya Bawa presided over the case and adjourned it to March 15th for further proceedings.