A yet-to-be-identified officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission 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.
It was gathered that the incident which occurred on Friday, left some other persons around the scene sustaining varying degrees of injuries as they scampered to safety due to the unexpected gunshots.
The operatives, who had travelled from the EFCC’s zonal headquarters in Enugu, were said to be on a mission to apprehend a group of suspected cyber criminals when they were ambushed.
A source near the scene 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 said to be an assistant superintendent, had recently completed a promotional examination. His identity is being withheld pending official notification of his family.
When contacted, the Anambra State Police Command Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development, adding that investigation has commenced.
“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 added.
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