An officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was tragically killed, and another seriously wounded, after suspected internet fraudsters, known as Yahoo Boys, opened fire on anti-graft operatives in Anambra on Friday.
The operatives, dispatched from the EFCC’s Enugu zonal office, were on a mission to apprehend the suspects when the violent confrontation occurred. The ambush led to the immediate death of one officer, while another was critically injured and remains hospitalized.
Authorities have detained a male suspect in connection with the attack, though his identity has not yet been disclosed. Details about whether the suspect has legal representation remain unclear.
When contacted, an EFCC spokesperson stated he was still gathering details about the incident, and the Anambra police have yet to comment.
The assault coincides with efforts by EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede to overhaul the agency’s procedures for targeting financial criminals. Traditionally, Yahoo Boys were seen as non-violent and easily apprehended, making this attack particularly alarming.
The fallen officer, an assistant superintendent who had recently passed a promotional exam, leaves behind grieving colleagues and a family yet to be officially notified. The EFCC has withheld his name to allow time for this process.
The incident has sparked concern among EFCC staff about the agency’s outdated insurance policies.
“We no longer have life insurance,” an officer revealed anonymously, citing that the last compensation for a fallen officer’s family was under former chairperson Farida Waziri. Another officer questioned the impact of the tragedy: “Can we say he died for nothing if the family receives no support?”
This shocking turn of events has intensified calls for improved safety measures and benefits for operatives risking their lives in the line of duty.
