January 20, (THEWILL) – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has sounded an alarm over the evolving threat posed by internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, who are reportedly venturing into more violent crimes, including kidnapping, banditry, and ritual killings.
This revelation comes amid the Commission’s condemnation of false narratives circulating on social media concerning the death of one of its officers, Assistant Superintendent of EFCC (ASE II) Aminu Sahabi Salisu.
Salisu was killed in the line of duty on January 17, 2025, during an operation targeting suspected fraudsters in Awka, Anambra State.
THEWILL reports that Salisu, attached to the EFCC Enugu Zonal Command, was fatally shot by a suspect, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, during a raid that resulted in the arrest of 37 suspects. The operation also left another officer injured.
In a statement issued by the Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC expressed grief over Salisu’s death and vowed to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Oyewale also decried the spread of misinformation regarding the tragic incident.
“It is heinous to trivialize the death of a gallant officer who was performing a patriotic duty into social media propaganda. There is no justification for such a murderous act, and the Commission will not tolerate baseless conjectures aimed at excusing criminal behavior,” Oyewale stated.
According to the EFCC, the operation was carried out following due process, with documentation at both the Anambra State Command Headquarters and the Area Command of the Nigeria Police.
Investigators had arrested 37 suspects at a building on Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka, before encountering resistance from Ikechukwu.
Ikechukwu reportedly used CCTV cameras to monitor the EFCC operatives and refused to open his door despite their identification.
He instead opened fire on the officers, killing Salisu and injuring another. Preliminary investigations revealed that Ikechukwu was involved in internet fraud and suspicious online medical supplies.
Recovered items from his apartment include laptops, iPads, and recording devices, all linked to fraudulent activities.
The EFCC confirmed that Ikechukwu is currently in police custody and will be prosecuted.
The commission further raised concerns over the increasing menace of internet fraudsters, warning that many of them are now heavily armed and involved in violent crimes.
“The public should not be deceived into thinking they are just Yahoo boys and girls. Intelligence has shown that their activities now pose significant threats to public safety and security,” the statement read.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to protecting its personnel and combating internet fraud and corruption. It warned that future attacks on its officers would be met with the full force of the law.
While mourning Salisu’s death, the EFCC expressed gratitude for the support and condolences from sister agencies and well-meaning Nigerians during this trying period.
“Assistant Superintendent Aminu Sahabi Salisu paid the ultimate price in service to the nation. The Commission will not relent in its fight against internet fraud and will ensure justice for his death,” it added.
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