An Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the death of one of its operatives, Aminu Salisu, during an operation targeting suspected internet fraudsters in Anambra State.
The EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said in a statement on Sunday Salisu was fatally shot by a suspected fraudster, Joshua Ikechukwu, a during a raid at his residence in Awka.
The spokesman added that 37 suspects were apprehended in the two-story building.
Oyewale said: “However, the situation took a deadly turn when Ikechukwu, alerted by CCTV cameras at his doorstep, refused to open his door despite what the EFCC described as a “polite request for entrance.
“Ikechukwu, who admitted spotting investigators via CCTV, ignored all attempts at peaceful entry. Instead, he resorted to violence, opening fire on the officers.
“Preliminary investigations have linked Ikechukwu to suspicious activities involving coding and online medical supplies.
“During a search of his apartment, EFCC operatives recovered laptops, iPads, and recording devices. He is currently in police custody and will face trial.”
The EFCC expressed deep concern over the increasing weaponization of cybercrime.
“This incident highlights a worrying trend.
“Intelligence shows that some internet fraudsters are not only defrauding people online but are now arming themselves, engaging in kidnapping, ritual killings, and other violent crimes,” he added.