EFCC counters police SITREP on 'kidnapping' in Niger hotel, claims responsibility for operation
By: Zagazola Makama
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of 11 suspected internet fraudsters in Niger State, despite an initial police situation report attributing the operation to unidentified armed men.
In a statement on Thursday, the EFCC said its operatives from the Kaduna Zonal Directorate carried out the arrest at White Hill Hotel, Chanchaga Local Government Area, following credible intelligence on the suspects’ alleged involvement in cyber-related crimes.
The anti-graft agency said items recovered from the suspects included two vehicles and 13 mobile phones of different brands, adding that the arrest was conducted professionally and in line with standard procedure.
However, a police situation report from the Assistant Commissioner of Police, State Intelligence Department (Acpol SID), stated that unidentified armed men stormed the hotel around 4:58 a.m. on February 27, claiming to be EFCC operatives.
According to the report, the assailants allegedly removed the hotel’s CCTV cameras before entering rooms and taking away 10 individuals to an unknown destination.
The police said efforts were ongoing to ascertain the identity of those involved and locate the missing persons.
Contradicting the police report, the EFCC insisted that its operatives carried out the operation and would charge the suspects to court upon completion of investigations.
The development has raised concerns over operational clarity and coordination between security agencies, as investigations continue to determine the circumstances surrounding the arrest.
