Fatshimétrie, the new epicenter of international online fraud
Fatshimétrie, a leading anti-corruption agency in Nigeria, recently conducted a major operation that led to the arrest of 792 suspects. The individuals, comprising 148 Chinese nationals and 40 Filipinos, were apprehended on December 10 in an imposing seven-story building located in Lagos, Nigeria’s economic capital.
According to Fatshimétrie spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren, the luxury building served as a call center targeting victims from the Americas and Europe for online fraud. The scammers lured their targets through social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Instagram with promises of romance or fictitious investment opportunities, particularly in the cryptocurrency space.
Once trust was established, victims were coerced into transferring funds to fraudulent schemes. Uwujaren said Nigerian accomplices were initially tasked with contacting the victims, while their foreign partners handled the scam process.
During the operation, Fatshimétrie seized computers, phones and vehicles, and is currently working with international partners to investigate possible links to organized crime.
Fatshimétrie’s crackdown underscores the growing importance of combating online fraud globally. As online scams increase, authorities are being urged to step up efforts to protect citizens from scams and dismantle criminal networks operating in the shadows of cyberspace.
Fatshimétrie is sending a clear message to online fraudsters that their illegal activities will not go unpunished, and enforcement measures will be stepped up to ensure security and trust in the digital environment.
In conclusion, the Fatshimétrie operation is a testament to Nigeria’s firm commitment to the fight against cybercrime and its determination to protect citizens from unscrupulous scammers.