Kogi West Senator, Sunday Karimi, Moves Motion for Arrest of Bandits Flaunting Cash on Social Media
Global Times Nigeria have obtained a report, which revealed that the Senate has directed security agencies to intensify surveillance and ensure the arrest of bandits and terrorists who openly display cash and criminal proceeds on social media platforms.
The Senate expressed concern over the increasing trend of criminals publicly showcasing their activities and wealth online, particularly on TikTok and other social media platforms.
Lawmakers noted that criminal networks have become increasingly emboldened, using digital platforms to glorify their operations and intimidate citizens.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Sunday Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District.
In presenting the motion, Karimi highlighted the growing incidents of banditry and terrorist attacks in Kogi West and several other parts of the country.
He stressed the need for urgent action to address the worsening security situation.
During deliberations, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raised concerns about the use of social media by armed groups to promote criminal activities and recruit followers.
She urged the Nigeria Police Force and relevant cybercrime agencies to strengthen collaboration in tracking, monitoring, and apprehending individuals who openly publicize their criminal operations online.
The senator further lamented that many of these groups not only flaunt large sums of money suspected to be proceeds of crime but also organize giveaways and other online engagements funded through illicit activities.
Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed surprise that despite the visibility of such activities on social media, security agencies had yet to take decisive action against the perpetrators.
She questioned why authorities had been unable to identify and track down individuals openly advertising criminal conduct on digital platforms.
She subsequently called on the National Cybercrime Centre and other law enforcement agencies to act swiftly by investigating and prosecuting those involved.
The motion received overwhelming support from senators across party lines, reflecting growing concern over the online glorification of criminality and its implications for national security.
The Senate’s resolution has since generated widespread reactions among Nigerians, with many citizens questioning why it took so long for lawmakers and security agencies to address the issue.
