A young woman identified as Chinaza Ani has been arrested by operatives of the Delta State Police Command for allegedly unlocking a lost mobile phone she found on the ground without the owner’s consent.
According to police reports, Chinaza allegedly picked up the phone and took it to a local phone repair technician to have it “flashed” in an attempt to bypass the security lock. The technician, whose identity has not been officially disclosed, was also arrested for aiding in the unauthorized access to the device.
The incident occurred in Asaba Delta State and quickly drew public attention after a video surfaced online showing both suspects in custody. Speaking on the matter, the spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest, stating that unauthorized flashing of a phone especially one that does not belong to you constitutes a criminal offense.
“If you find a lost phone, the appropriate action is to answer any incoming calls or turn it in at the nearest police station,” SP Edafe warned in a video statement posted on social media. “Unlocking or flashing a found phone without due process is considered illegal and could lead to arrest and prosecution.”
The lady was also accused of accessing the facebook account of the phone’s owner and also messaging people on her WhatsApp which is considered as impersonation
The Delta State Police have since launched an investigation into the matter, noting that more arrests could follow if other individuals are found to be involved.
The case has sparked discussions online about digital ethics and the legal implications of tampering with lost or stolen devices. Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express surprise, with some calling for more public awareness about what constitutes cybercrime under Nigerian law.
As of the time of this report, both suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
