A tragic incident unfolded in the Onitsha area of Anambra State on Friday when suspected internet fraudsters, commonly known as "Yahoo boys," attacked operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The attack resulted in the death of one EFCC officer and left another critically injured.
According to report, the EFCC team had traveled from their zonal headquarters in Enugu to Onitsha to apprehend a group of suspected cybercriminals. The operation, which began early Friday morning, turned violent when the suspects opened fire on the officers.
The deceased officer, whose identity remains undisclosed, succumbed to gunshot wounds, while his injured colleague is currently receiving medical attention.
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident and assured the public that investigations are underway. Speaking on the matter, the command's spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed that one suspect involved in the attack has been arrested, and a firearm used in the crime has been recovered.
"Investigation into the sad incident is ongoing. The suspect is in custody, and the firearm has been recovered. Further details shall be communicated, please," Ikenga stated.
The attack highlights the growing risks faced by law enforcement officers in their efforts to combat cybercrime in Nigeria. The EFCC has intensified its crackdown on internet fraud across the country, often conducting operations in areas where cybercriminals are believed to operate. However, such operations increasingly expose officers to retaliatory attacks.
Cybercrime, popularly associated with the so-called "Yahoo boys," has become a significant issue in Nigeria, with perpetrators often engaging in online scams, identity theft, and other fraudulent activities. The EFCC has consistently pursued these offenders, but Friday's attack stresses the dangers associated with these efforts.
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