FBI arrests nine in Nigeria over cybercrime, seizes 53 devices

The FBI has announced the arrest of nine individuals in Nigeria as part of a joint operation targeting international cybercrime networks. During the operation, authorities seized 53 electronic devices and identified $11 million in potentially freezeable funds across multiple countries. The Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kash Patel, revealed these details in a statement on his official X account, emphasizing that the operation aimed to dismantle criminal networks responsible for online fraud targeting Americans.

Patel stated, "Operation Blackout is taking the fight directly to the international cybercriminal networks stealing billions from Americans." He added, "These scam centres exploit innocent victims, steal life savings, and operate across international borders believing they are beyond the reach of law enforcement." The FBI director also acknowledged the critical role of Nigerian law enforcement and their partners in London, stating, "Thanks to Nigerian law enforcement and our partners in London for their outstanding cooperation." Patel warned, "To the criminals targeting Americans from overseas: JUSTICE WILL FIND YOU."