Did an alleged Yahoo boy kill and injure EFCC officials in Anambra? Here’s all to know
Photo credit: EFCC website
A tragic incident occurred yesterday in Anambra State, Nigeria, between operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and a suspected internet fraudster (Yahoo Boy).
Details of what happened
The EFCC team was on a mission to apprehend individuals involved in cybercrime activities as early as 4 am on Friday at Ifite Awka. Their mission was to carry out a raid on the residence of suspected internet fraudsters. The team has successfully arrested several individuals and confiscated items, including credit cards and luxury vehicles. However, the operatives proceeded to another building for their raid.
The occupant of the room refused to open the door thinking they were kidnappers or thieves due to the manner they invaded the house.
In the ensuing chaos, the man whose identity hasn’t been disclosed yet took up arms and shot an officer in the hand, and the other in the stomach which led to instant death. The dead officer identified as Salisu, was taken to the hospital alongside the others injured where he was certified dead but others on treatment.
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According to Sahara Reporters, following the tragic incident, the body of the deceased officer was transported to Sokoto State for burial by Islamic rites. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, reportedly visited Awka to facilitate the transportation and to urge the Nigerian police to take prompt action regarding the incident.
Salisu is also reported to have recently completed his promotional exams, as an Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC and has a wedding coming up soon.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command has also confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are ongoing. A suspect is currently in custody, and the firearm used in the attack has been confiscated by the police.
This incident has sparked widespread outrage and debate across various social media platforms. Many netizens have expressed their condolences to the family of the deceased officer and have called for justice to be served swiftly.
While the majority of the public condemns the attack, some individuals have equally suggested that the EFCC should reassess its operational strategies. Critics argue that the agency’s approach may sometimes be perceived as aggressive, potentially provoking violent reactions. They advocate for more intelligence-driven operations and better collaboration with local law enforcement to prevent such tragic outcomes.
One of the shocking revelations following the attack is the claim by an EFCC official that operatives no longer have life insurance coverage. This disclosure according to Sahara Reporters has led to widespread criticism of the agency’s handling of its personnel’s welfare. Many argue that if operatives are expected to engage in dangerous missions, they must be adequately insured and equipped for their safety.
As in estivation continues, this incident has called for better collaboration between EFCC and other security agencies to ensure that such missions are intelligence-driven and safer for all parties involved.
Meanwhile, everyone awaits the result of the investigation to ascertain the truth about the issue.
