The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the tragic death of one of its officers during a raid in Anambra State, vowing to bring the perpetrator to justice.
The death of the officer gained widespread attention on social media after the incident was reported over the weekend, prompting the EFCC to release a statement confirming the event.
In a statement issued by Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, the commission expressed deep grief over the loss of Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASE II Aminu Sahabi Salisu, who was killed in cold blood while performing his official duties on January 17, 2025. Salisu was reportedly shot by suspected internet fraudster Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu.
Following the officer’s death, there was significant outcry on social media, with some Nigerians questioning the legality of the raid, which had taken place at night. The EFCC swiftly addressed these claims, condemning the spread of false and misleading narratives.
The statement read, “It is heinous to reduce the death of a brave officer, who was executing patriotic duties, to social media sensationalism. We are deeply concerned by irresponsible and callous commentary that attempts to justify the actions of a criminal who targeted our officers. There is no justification for such a murderous act. We urge the public to refrain from spreading false narratives that undermine the grief of the officer’s family and the nation.”
The EFCC provided further details about the incident, explaining that Salisu, along with other investigators, had been conducting an operation at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka, Anambra State, to arrest suspected internet fraudsters on January 17. The operation was documented in accordance with established protocols at the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters.
The operation initially went smoothly, with 37 suspected fraudsters arrested at a two-story building housing Ikechukwu and others. However, when Ikechukwu noticed the investigators through a CCTV camera at his door, he refused to open his apartment door. Despite repeated attempts by the investigators to gain entry, Ikechukwu opened fire on them, fatally shooting Salisu and injuring another officer.
Preliminary investigations have linked Ikechukwu to illegal online activities, including the sale of dubious medical supplies. Laptops, iPads, and other electronic devices were recovered from his apartment, further substantiating his involvement in internet fraud. Ikechukwu is currently in police custody, and the EFCC has pledged to ensure he faces trial for his crimes.
The EFCC also raised concerns about the growing danger posed by internet fraudsters, warning that these criminals are increasingly armed and involved in other serious criminal activities, including kidnapping, banditry, ritual killings, and more. The commission urged the public not to underestimate the threat posed by these individuals.
In its statement, the EFCC made it clear that any further attacks on its officers would be met with the full force of the law. “We will not stand idly by and allow our officers to be killed in cold blood,” the commission stated. “As a respected law enforcement agency, the EFCC remains committed to ridding the nation of internet fraud and other forms of corruption.”
