Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has defended its sting operation at Applewood Estate on Orchid Road, Lekki, Lagos, insisting that the exercise was professionally conducted and led to the arrest of 19 suspected internet fraudsters who will soon be charged in court.
The anti-graft agency said the operation was carried out by operatives of its Lagos Directorate 1 at about 5 a.m. on Monday, October 26, after intelligence gathering, surveillance and reconnaissance linked the suspects to alleged cybercrime activities.
According to the Commission, 21 suspects were initially arrested during the raid, while five exotic cars were recovered from the estate.
The EFCC alleged that the suspects defrauded unsuspecting victims by impersonating different individuals online and receiving payments through gift cards, cryptocurrency transactions and international money transfers.
It said preliminary investigations found evidence against 19 of the suspects, while two others were released after they were not linked to the alleged offences.
The Commission also addressed reports surrounding the arrest of a young woman during the operation. It explained that she allegedly attempted to alert the suspects by making telephone calls as the operatives moved into the estate. Her phone was temporarily confiscated to prevent interference with the operation and was returned to her after the exercise ended.
The EFCC said the 19 suspects would be arraigned in court immediately to answer charges arising from the investigation.
Responding to criticism of the operation, the Commission maintained that its officers acted within the law.
“The Sting Operation at Applewood Estate was professionally carried out, with no record of harassment, intimidation or unlawful arrest of anyone,” the agency said.
The Commission urged Nigerians to continue supporting its campaign against economic and financial crimes.
It stated: “While the EFCC continues its crusade and operational dynamics against economic and financial crimes and other acts of corruption, the public is enjoined to keep faith with it and loudly condemn the activities of fraudsters bringing the nation to disrepute.”
The anti-graft agency also warned against what it described as attempts to discredit its operations.
“The Commission is open to constructive engagement by well-meaning Nigerians but blackmailers and alarmists will not be allowed to sabotage its mandate,” it added.
The EFCC has sustained a nationwide crackdown on suspected internet fraudsters as part of efforts to curb cybercrime, strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s financial system and protect individuals from online scams. Under Nigerian law, however, every suspect remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
