MOCA says two men arrested in Nigeria over cyber attack on NWC

The Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) is reporting that two men have been arrested in Nigeria as part of a multi-agency investigation into a cyber attack aimed at defrauding over US$1 million from the National Water Commission (NWC).

MOCA’s director of communications Major Basil Jarrett, in a media release today, said the agency's investigation continues with its international partners as more individuals may be involved in the very sophisticated cyber fraud scheme.

Jarrett stated that the agency was first alerted by the NWC in August 2023 of a business email compromise that had illegally routed the funds to the criminals.

In response, MOCA, in collaboration with its US federal law enforcement partners launched an intensive, international cyber investigation into the attack, resulting in the monies being frozen and ultimately, the majority of it being returned, added Jarrett.

It was stated that MOCA’s investigations into the cyber-attack had pointed to the involvement of an international cyber threat actor located in Nigeria, and through further international cooperation, a search warrant was executed in that country.

The two men, both residents of Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria, were eventually located by local authorities.

Jarrett charges that the arrest of the men is a clear indicator of the strength of MOCA’s cyber investigation capabilities and the importance of ongoing collaborations across borders.

“This outcome not only highlights the resilience and preparedness of our cyber security defences but also underscores the critical importance of international cooperation in addressing cyber threats”.

Jarrett also commended the NWC for its swift detection and notification system which not only informed them of the attack, but also prompted them to get MOCA involved.

MOCA says its investigation continues with its international partners as more individuals may be involved in the very sophisticated cyber fraud scheme.

In the meantime, Jarrett says the agency remains committed to its crucial role in protecting Jamaica's critical infrastructure and ensuring the integrity of its financial systems.

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