Operative Killed In Anambra On Legitimate Duty — EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the tragic killing of its Assistant Superintendent, Aminu Sahabi Salisu, who was on legitimate duty in Anambra State on January 17, 2025. According to the Commission, Salisu was murdered by a suspected internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, during an operation aimed at arresting fraud suspects in the state.

The EFCC expressed deep grief over the loss, condemning what it described as irresponsible and callous narratives circulating on social media regarding the circumstances of the officer’s death. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale strongly rejected any attempt to downplay the incident, calling it “heinous” to reduce the officer’s death to “social media razzmatazz.” Oyewale also criticized faceless commentators who sided with Ikechukwu, the alleged criminal, stating that there is no justification for rationalizing such a murderous act.

The Commission confirmed that Salisu and other investigators were in Ifite, Awka, Anambra State, to arrest suspected internet fraudsters. The operation, which was fully documented at the Anambra State Command Headquarters and the Area Command of the Nigeria Police, initially proceeded smoothly with the arrest of 37 suspected fraudsters at a two-storey building. Ikechukwu, who was among those being targeted, reportedly observed the investigators through a CCTV camera at his apartment and refused to open the door when they arrived.

Despite the officers’ polite requests for entry and their clear identification, Ikechukwu opened fire on them, fatally wounding Salisu and injuring another officer. The EFCC noted that preliminary investigations indicated Ikechukwu was involved in coding and online medical supplies of doubtful legitimacy. A search of his apartment yielded laptops, iPads, and other recording devices, confirming his involvement in internet fraud.

Ikechukwu is currently in police custody and will face trial for the murder of Salisu and the wounding of another officer. The EFCC vowed to bring him to justice, reaffirming its commitment to fighting corruption and internet fraud in Nigeria.

The Commission expressed condolences to Salisu’s family, acknowledging the profound loss of a gallant officer who was performing his duty for the nation.