Niger Police Clarifies EFCC Raid Misreported as Bandit Attack

The Niger State Police Command refuted reports claiming bandits abducted 10 hotel guests, confirming the raid was executed by EFCC operatives. The operation led to the arrest of 11 suspected internet fraudsters. The EFCC emphasized the professional conduct of their team during the operation, which included the recovery of stolen items. Clear communication of these events is crucial to prevent misinformation.

The Niger State Police Command has denied claims suggesting that bandits abducted 10 hotel guests in Niger State. Initial unverified reports alleged that armed men, impersonating Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) operatives, raided White Hill Hotel in Chanchaga Local Government Area. These reports claimed the assailants disabled the hotel’s CCTV cameras before capturing the guests. An Assistant Commissioner of Police mentioned ongoing investigations to identify the perpetrators and locate the victims.

In response, Niger State Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun clarified that the operation was indeed conducted by EFCC operatives, not bandits. He stated, “The Niger State Police Command wishes to respond to reports circulating in some online media that bandits attacked a hotel in Minna and abducted ten persons. This narrative is false. The operation was conducted by EFCC operatives.”

The EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, corroborated the raid’s legitimacy, indicating that it was executed professionally. His statement noted that 11 individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud were arrested during the operation, following credible intelligence on their activities. Items recovered included two vehicles and 13 mobile phones, emphasizing the operation’s focus on fraud prevention rather than abduction.

Oyewale further explained that the EFCC operatives did not execute any actions resembling abduction during the arrest. He assured that thorough investigations would follow and the arrested suspects would face charges in court. The EFCC aims to conduct operations with transparency and professionalism to enforce compliance against fraudsters in the region.

The Niger State Police Command has clarified that a recent hotel raid resulting in arrests was not executed by bandits but by EFCC operatives. Initial misinformation suggested abduction of hotel guests; however, the EFCC confirmed the operation aimed to apprehend suspected internet fraudsters. This case highlights the importance of clear and accurate reporting in law enforcement activities.

Original Source: punchng.com