A yet-to-be-identified officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been shot dead and another critically injured after suspected Internet fraudsters, known as Yahoo boys, opened fire on the anti-graft operatives in the Onitsha area of Anambra State.
According to reports, the event on Friday injured several more people as they scampered to shelter as a result of the surprise gunshots.
The operatives, who had travelled from the EFCC’s zonal offices in Enugu, were reportedly on a mission to catch a bunch of suspected cyber criminals when they were ambushed.
An eyewitness who pleaded anonymity due to the sensitivity of the incident said, “The incident happened this morning (Friday). The suspected Internet fraudsters suddenly opened fire on the EFCC operatives on noticing their presence.
“In the process, they shot one officer dead instantly, while another who was critically injured was rushed to a nearby hospital and still remained in critical condition at the hospital as of Friday night.”
The deceased, described as an assistant superintendent, had recently passed a promotional examination. His identity is being withheld until official notification to his family.
When contacted, Anambra State Police Command Spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga verified the news and stated that an inquiry had begun.
“Investigation into the sad incident is ongoing. The suspect is in custody while the arm has been recovered. Further details shall be communicated, please,” Ikenga stated.
