Internet Fraudster Turns Himself In To EFCC In Benin, Vows To Reform.
Benin, Nigeria – In a surprising turn of events, a 28-year-old internet fraudster voluntarily surrendered to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Benin on Monday, 8 April 2025, expressing a desire to abandon his criminal activities and start anew.
The young man, hailing from Oredo Local Government Area in Edo State, handed himself over to Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACEI Effam Okim, the Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Directorate. In a candid statement, he explained his decision, saying, “I reported myself because I wanted to stop and turn a new leaf.” He admitted that the fear of being apprehended by EFCC operatives had weighed heavily on him, prompting his resolve to end his fraudulent practices.
Before his surrender, the individual specialised in romance scams, a prevalent form of internet fraud. He confessed to targeting foreigners, posing as a Chinese medical doctor working in a war-torn country. “I tell my victims that I am from China,” he revealed. “I communicate with them in Chinese using a mobile app translator. I profess love for them by telling them how beautiful and attractive they are.” Through these deceptive tactics, he lured victims into fake romantic relationships to exploit them financially.
The EFCC has commended the fraudster’s decision to surrender voluntarily, noting that it reflects a growing awareness of the consequences of cybercrime. Authorities are now assessing the case to determine the next steps, while the individual’s commitment to reform has sparked hope for his rehabilitation.
This development underscores the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on internet fraud in Nigeria, with officials urging others involved in similar activities to follow this example and seek lawful paths. As the nation continues its fight against cybercrime, stories like this offer a glimmer of optimism for change and redemption.
