The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a strong warning about the growing threat of cyber-slavery in West Africa, particularly affecting Nigerian citizens. According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, the increase in cyber-slavery is alarming, with young Nigerians, especially vulnerable youths, being targeted. These individuals are lured abroad with promises of high-paying jobs, particularly in cryptocurrency-related ventures, only to be trafficked into criminal operations.
Tuggar explained that the victims, many of whom are underage teenagers, are coerced into working in call centers often referred to as “419 cyber-scam factories.” These factories exploit the victims under inhumane conditions, forcing them to send fraudulent emails, text messages, and make scam calls aimed at defrauding people globally. The minister emphasized that the operation is sophisticated and involves extreme abuse and coercion.
The Foreign Affairs Minister cited a recent incident in Accra, Ghana, where the Economic and Organised Crime Office rescued a group of Nigerians trapped in such cybercrime operations. This rescue operation highlighted the severe exploitation and mistreatment victims endure while being exploited for cybercrime activities. Tuggar’s statement underscores the need for greater vigilance and international cooperation to combat this growing issue.
In a related development, the Nigerian Union in South Africa (NUSA) condemned a brutal attack on Nigerians in Springs, Gauteng Province. The incident involved the kidnapping of one Ani Silas and the assault of several others by a member of a television station’s staff, supported by private security and South African police. NUSA called for urgent attention to these attacks and further safety measures for Nigerians living abroad.
Source: The Guardian