The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 17-year-old boy over an alleged cybercrime operation involving the hacking of celebrities’ WhatsApp accounts and the sale of explicit materials to fellow students.
The Divisional Police Officer of Ugborikoko Division in Uvwie Local Government Area, Temi Agbede-Zuokumor, revealed the development during a security awareness session held alongside comedian Otaghware Onodjayeke, popularly known as I Go Save.
According to the police officer, the case was uncovered during a routine inspection of a student’s mobile phone, which raised suspicion. Initial claims by the student’s mother that the device belonged to his sister were later disproved after a thorough check.
Agbede-Zuokumor explained that a closer examination of the phone revealed it was solely used by the teenager and contained a large collection of explicit materials. Investigators also discovered over 80 foreign contacts, including several Australian numbers.
Further analysis of the device reportedly showed conversations indicating the suspect was selling explicit content to classmates, who allegedly referred to him as “boss” in school.
Police investigations also suggest the teenager gained unauthorized access to WhatsApp accounts belonging to prominent individuals, which he allegedly used to solicit money from unsuspecting victims.
Speaking at the event, I Go Save recounted a similar encounter, describing how a fraudster once impersonated billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk to request financial assistance, even sending an Opay account after initial contact.
The police have since urged parents, guardians, and school authorities to remain vigilant, warning of the growing sophistication of cybercrime among young people. They emphasized the importance of monitoring children’s online activities and promoting responsible use of digital devices.
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