EFCC CONFIRMS KILLING OF OFFICER BY SUSPECTED FRAUDSTER IN ANAMBRA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the tragic death of one of its officers during a raid in Anambra State, pledging to ensure the perpetrator faces justice.
The news of the officer’s death gained significant attention on social media over the weekend. Days later, the EFCC issued a statement confirming the incident and expressing grief over the loss of Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC (ASE II), Aminu Sahabi Salisu.
In a statement by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC revealed that Salisu was killed in the line of duty on January 17, 2025, by a suspected internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu.
Backlash and the EFCC’s Response
Following the incident, some Nigerians took to social media, criticizing the EFCC and alleging the raid was conducted at night under questionable circumstances. Responding to these claims, the Commission condemned what it described as “irresponsible and outrageous narratives” about the incident.
“It is heinous to reduce the death of a gallant officer carrying out patriotic and official duties to social media razzmatazz,” the statement read. The EFCC expressed concern over attempts to sympathize with an alleged criminal while disregarding the gravity of the officer’s death.
Details of the Incident
Providing details of the raid, the EFCC explained that its officers were at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka, in the early hours of January 17 to apprehend suspected internet fraudsters. The operation, which followed due protocol and was documented at the Anambra State Police Command, initially proceeded smoothly, resulting in the arrest of 37 suspects in a two-storey building.
However, Ikechukwu, who had observed the investigators via a CCTV camera at his doorpost, refused to open his door despite their proper identification. Instead, he fired at the officers, killing Salisu and wounding another investigator.
Preliminary Findings
Investigations revealed Ikechukwu’s involvement in coding and online medical supplies of questionable legitimacy. Items recovered from his apartment included two laptops, iPads, and several recording devices, confirming his connection to internet fraud.
The EFCC disclosed that Ikechukwu is currently in police custody and assured the public that he would face trial for his actions, particularly the murder of Officer Salisu.
The Commission concluded by urging the public to respect the grieving officer’s family and refrain from spreading false narratives about the incident.
