November 20, 2019

Anna Murray 

A shocking internet fraud happened in Nigeria Lagos prison. Hope Olusegun Aroke was convicted of internet fraud in 2012 and sentenced to 24 years in the Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison. However, he still could access the internet and conducted a "mega scam" worth up to $1m (£773,000).

Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) revealed a statement on Nov. 19th to state that a reliable intelligence questioning how Aroke can utilize his cell phone and trade with a fraud in the Lagos prison. 

EFCC also disclosed the previous investigation. Aroke had been confirmed that he was able to use the mobile phone, to stay in the outside of the prison, to meet his wife and his children and to attend social activities. Besides, Aroke used two fake identification to open bank account to purchase luxury vehicles. He freely made transactions while he was in the prison. 

Nigerians had different perspectives on the internet fraud to influence the image of Nigeria. Some pursuits this fast and easy method to have a success, especially for young generations. Others worries that the trend of internet fraud will cause negative reputation of Nigeria, such as the internet fraud might hinder the business development for young entrepreneurs and businessmen and legitimate companies might refused to have the valid visa from United States. 

Michael Nail, an FBI special agent, indicated that internet fraud can be processed at home with a pajama. Therefore, internet fraud is also known as a modern-day bank robbery.

Photo:Webshot.