An Assistant Superintendent of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Aminu Sahabi Salisu, was tragically killed on January 17, 2025, during an operation targeting suspected internet fraudsters in Ifite, Awka, Anambra State. Salisu was fatally shot by a suspect, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, who is now in police custody.
The EFCC confirmed that the operation, aimed at arresting individuals involved in internet fraud, was carried out in collaboration with the Anambra State Police Command. A total of 37 suspects were initially apprehended from a two-story building, but events took a violent turn when Ikechukwu, monitoring the investigators via CCTV, opened fire on the officers. Another EFCC official sustained injuries during the incident.
Preliminary investigations have linked Ikechukwu to questionable coding activities and online medical supply operations of dubious legitimacy. Items recovered from his apartment include laptops, iPads, and recording devices, which the EFCC claims confirm his involvement in internet fraud.
The Commission has pledged to ensure Ikechukwu is prosecuted for both his fraudulent activities and the fatal attack on its personnel.
In a statement issued by the EFCC, the agency condemned the spread of misinformation on social media surrounding the officer’s death. “It is irresponsible and inhumane to trivialize the sacrifice of a gallant officer by peddling false narratives,” the statement read.
The EFCC also expressed concern over individuals allegedly sympathizing with the suspect, describing such acts as an affront to justice and public decency.
The incident has highlighted what the EFCC describes as the growing danger posed by internet fraudsters, who are increasingly linked to violent crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and ritual killings. The Commission warned that these individuals, often dismissed as “Yahoo boys and girls,” now pose significant threats to public safety.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to combating cybercrime and corruption while emphasizing that any future attacks on its officers will be met with the full weight of the law.
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The EFCC acknowledged the support and condolences received from sister agencies and members of the public, as it mourns the loss of Salisu, whom it described as a patriot who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.
As investigations continue, the Commission has called for respect and understanding for the grieving family, while vowing to press on with its mission of ridding Nigeria of internet fraud and corruption.
