Gistlover Takedown: Nigerian Police Bust Cyberstalking Syndicate Behind Notorious Blog

In a major victory for online safety, the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has arrested three individuals linked to the infamous "Gistlover" blog, known for its cyberstalking, blackmail, and defamatory activities. This operation marks a significant step towards tackling cybercrime and ensuring digital security for Nigerian citizens.

Acting on a petition filed by Dr. Mrs. Oluseyi Oladejo, who faced targeted cyberstalking and threats on the blog, the NPF National Cybercrime Center apprehended the suspects: Adebukola Kolapo (a.k.a. Omo Oba Gistlover), Nnedum Somtochukwu, and Isaac Akpokighe.

Investigations revealed their roles in the "Gistlover family" syndicate responsible for operating the blog. Kolapo, the alleged mastermind, reportedly created over 80% of the Gistlover pages and oversaw content creation, including the offensive post against Dr. Oladejo. He also engaged in money laundering through the scheme.

Somtochukwu allegedly aided the blog's evasiveness by redirecting traffic to new pages whenever the original blog faced takedowns for policy violations. Both Kolapo and Somtochukwu enjoyed financial incentives from the blog's head.

Akpokighe, operating independently, mirrored the syndicate's activities by creating similar pages and reposting defamatory content. Digital forensics recovered four such pages linked to him.

All three suspects will face charges upon the investigation's completion. Inspector-General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun commended the NPF Cybercrime Center and reaffirmed the force's commitment to safeguarding citizens in both physical and digital spaces.

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This breakthrough highlights the NPF's growing capabilities in combating cybercrime. It also serves as a strong warning against online platforms and individuals engaging in illegal activities. The arrest sends a clear message that cyberstalking, blackmail, and defamation will not be tolerated in the Nigerian digital landscape.

Further developments and trial proceedings in this case are expected to provide more details about the "Gistlover" syndicate and its operations. This outcome sets a precedent for future enforcement against similar online threats, potentially paving the way for a safer and more responsible online environment in Nigeria.

By Bliss Anthony