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EFCC Officer Killed in Anambra During Midnight Raid on Suspected Cybercriminals

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ONITSHA, Anambra – A tragic incident unfolded in Anambra State on Friday, January 17, 2025, as an officer of Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, was shot dead, and another critically injured during a raid on suspected internet fraudsters in the Onitsha area.

The officer, Assistant Superintendent Aminu Sahabi Salisu, was killed in what the EFCC described as an ambush by the suspects.

The raid was part of an operation targeting alleged cybercriminals when one of the suspects, identified as Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, opened fire on the team.

According to the EFCC and eyewitness reports, the operatives had travelled from the EFCC’s zonal headquarters in Enugu to apprehend suspects in Awka, Anambra State.

The operation initially proceeded without incident, with 37 suspects arrested in a two-story building allegedly housing a cybercrime operation.

However, Ikechukwu, using a CCTV camera at his doorpost, identified the approaching EFCC team and refused to allow them entry.

Despite polite attempts by the officers to gain access, Ikechukwu reportedly fired at the operatives, killing Salisu and wounding another officer.

The injured officer remains in critical condition in a hospital, and several bystanders near the scene sustained minor injuries as they fled from the unexpected gunfire.

The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are underway. Spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga said:

“Investigation into the sad incident is ongoing. The suspect is in custody while the arm has been recovered. Further details shall be communicated, please.”

EFCC Condemns “False Narratives”

In a press statement on Sunday, EFCC Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, expressed grief over the loss of the officer and condemned misinformation circulating on social media regarding the incident.

“It is heinous to reduce the death of a gallant officer who was carrying out patriotic and official duties to social media razzmatazz,” the statement read.

The EFCC also revealed preliminary findings that linked Ikechukwu to coding and online medical supplies of dubious legitimacy.

Several electronic devices were recovered from his apartment, further establishing his involvement in internet fraud.

The agency reiterated its commitment to combating cybercrime and corruption, warning that future attacks on its operatives would be met with full legal force.

A Growing Concern

The EFCC highlighted the increasing threat posed by internet fraudsters, often referred to as “Yahoo boys.”

The agency noted that these individuals are becoming more dangerous, with intelligence linking them to kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes.

“The public should not fold its arms or allow itself to be deceived that they are mere ‘Yahoo boys and girls,’” the statement warned.

Salisu, who had recently completed a promotional examination, is being remembered as a dedicated officer who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.

The EFCC extended its condolences to his family and thanked sister agencies and the public for their support during this difficult time.

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