A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the temporary seizure of thousands of gadgets, electronics, and other items tied to a major cybercrime bust.
This comes after the EFCC arrested 792 people—193 foreigners and 599 Nigerians—in a dramatic raid dubbed the “Eagle Flush Operation.”
The operation took place on December 10, 2024, at a building in Victoria Island known as the Big Leaf.
The suspects were allegedly involved in cryptocurrency scams, money laundering, and romance fraud.
The court’s order covers 1,596 laptops, 4,091 phones, seven cars, and nearly 70 other items used in the crimes.
Also seized were 3,399 SIM cards, dozens of air conditioners, freezers, microwaves, generators, and office furniture.
Some suspects have already been taken to court, alongside a company named Genting International, which is tied to the alleged fraud.
During the hearing, EFCC lawyer Bima Isah said the operation was triggered by a tip about a foreign-led cybercrime ring.
He told the court that the recovered items were believed to be bought with or used in committing these crimes.
Justice Deinde Dipeolu granted the EFCC’s request, saying there was enough reason to suspect the items were linked to criminal activity.
He also ordered the EFCC to publish the ruling in a national newspaper to let anyone with claims to the assets step forward.
They now have 14 days to explain why the items shouldn’t be permanently taken by the federal government.
An EFCC investigator, Kaina Garba, said the foreign syndicate was recruiting young Nigerians and teaching them how to scam online.
Each recruit allegedly got a phone and laptop, plus scripts to run romance and investment scams.
The building raided in Victoria Island was believed to be the main hub of their operations in Nigeria.
During the raid, EFCC agents found high-end tech equipment, SIM cards, bunks, kitchen appliances—even a spiral dough mixer.
A total of 761 suspects were brought in for questioning, and more arrests could follow as the investigation continues.
EFCC officials say some ringleaders are still on the run but are being tracked.
The judge concluded that the EFCC had made a strong enough case to justify the interim forfeiture of the assets.
