EFCC mourns officer killed during Anambra raid, reveals details

DDM News

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC (ASE11), Aminu Sahabi Salisu, during a raid in Awka, Anambra State, on January 17, 2025.

Salisu, who was carrying out his lawful duties, was shot by a suspected internet fraudster, identified as Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the EFCC disclosed to Diaspora digital media (DDM) that Salisu, along with other operatives, had been on a mission to arrest internet fraud suspects in a two-storey building on Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka.

According to the commission, the operation was conducted following established protocols and duly documented with the Anambra State Command Headquarters and Area Command of the Nigeria Police.

The operation began smoothly, leading to the arrest of 37 suspected internet fraudsters.

However, trouble ensued when Ikechukwu, after spotting the investigators through a CCTV camera at his doorpost, refused to open the door despite their polite introduction and demands for entry.

Instead, he opened fire on the officers, fatally wounding Salisu and injuring another EFCC operative.

The EFCC expressed outrage over what it described as irresponsible and inhumane narratives circulating on social media about the incident.

The commission condemned attempts to downplay the death of a gallant officer and cautioned against rationalizing or sympathizing with criminal acts.

“It is heinous to reduce the death of a patriotic officer to social media razzmatazz,” the statement read.

Preliminary investigations revealed that Ikechukwu was involved in coding and the online sale of medical supplies with questionable legitimacy.

Items recovered from his apartment included two laptops, iPads, and several recording devices, all of which point to his involvement in internet fraud.

Ikechukwu is currently in police custody, and the EFCC has vowed to ensure he faces justice.

The commission warned of the increasing dangers posed by internet fraudsters, noting that many of them are now heavily armed and engaged in other criminal activities, including kidnapping, ritual killings, and banditry.

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

Reaffirming its commitment to tackling corruption and cybercrime, the EFCC declared that any future attacks on its personnel would be met with the full weight of the law.

“The Commission will not fold its arms and allow any of its officers to be killed again in cold blood,” the statement emphasized.

While mourning Salisu, the EFCC expressed gratitude for the condolences and support it has received from sister agencies and concerned individuals during this difficult time.

The commission also highlighted the bravery and dedication of its officers, who risk their lives daily in the fight against corruption and cybercrime.

The EFCC urged Nigerians to support its efforts in eradicating internet fraud and ensuring public safety, stressing that such acts undermine the nation’s security and economy.

Salisu’s tragic death underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and the need for collective action to address the growing threat posed by cybercriminals.

The EFCC reiterated its resolve to honor Salisu’s sacrifice by intensifying its fight against corruption and ensuring justice for his untimely death.

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