Rita Odafe
EFCC Responds to Officer’s Death
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a statement regarding the tragic death of one of its officers, Aminu Sahabi Salisu. He was reportedly shot by an alleged internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, while performing his duties in Anambra State.
In their statement released on January 19, the EFCC expressed grave concern over the irresponsible and distressing narratives circulating on social media about the incident. They condemned the act of trivializing the death of a dedicated officer who was acting on behalf of the nation.
“To attempt to justify such a brutal act is unacceptable. We are alarmed by commentary supporting a suspect who has endangered the lives of our officers,” the statement read.
The EFCC clarified that Salisu and fellow agents were conducting an operation to apprehend several suspected fraudsters at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka, early Friday morning.
According to the Commission, “The operation was documented at the Anambra State Command Headquarters and the Area Command of the Nigeria Police as per legal protocols.” Initially, 37 suspects were detained during this operation.
However, Ikechukwu, upon noticing the investigators via a CCTV camera, refused to open his door. Instead, he opened fire, resulting in Salisu’s death and injuries to another officer involved in the search.
Initial inquiries indicated that Ikechukwu was involved in questionable online medical supply services and that items including laptops and recording devices were recovered from his residence, linking him to internet fraud.
While he remains in police custody due to the nature of his actions, the EFCC is committed to pursuing legal action against him.
The EFCC warns that internet fraud activities are increasingly threatening public safety. Intelligence suggests that these criminals are involved in serious offenses including armed robbery, kidnapping, and ritual murders.
The Commission promised that any future attacks on its officers will be met with rigorous legal consequences and asserted that they will not allow further killings of their members.
As they grieve the loss of Officer Salisu, the EFCC extends gratitude to supportive sister agencies and the public for their condolences during this difficult time, reaffirming their dedication to combatting internet fraud and corruption.
