EFCC and Police Personnel Form Kidnap-for-Ransom Syndicate in Enugu, Detain Suspected Fraudsters in Makeshift Cells, Sources Reveal

According to Sahara Reporters, there exist a clandestine syndicate comprising rogue officers from the Enugu State police command and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). These officers are reportedly kidnapping individuals suspected of online fraud, commonly known as ‘Yahoo boys’, and detaining them in makeshift cells to extort ransom money.

According to the sources, this illicit team targets their victims by either raiding their homes or detaining them on the streets. The suspects are then held captive in undisclosed locations until they meet the ransom demands, bypassing the standard legal procedures due to a lack of evidence required for formal arrests.

One police source explained the modus operandi: “These rogue EFCC officials and some policemen formed an illegal squad to raid ‘Yahoo boys’. Without any official holding facilities, they detain them kidnap-style, refusing to release them until a ransom is paid.”

Some of the policemen involved in these activities have reportedly been arrested. However, it remains unclear if the EFCC has taken similar actions against their implicated officials.

When contacted, EFCC spokesperson Mr. Dele Oyewale denied the agency’s involvement, stating, “The configuration of EFCC does not allow for such activities. The commission operates under strict guidelines and any allegation of such misconduct is baseless and without proof. We are a disciplined organization.”

Similarly, Enugu State Police Command spokesman Daniel Ndukwe dismissed the allegations. Addressing the allegations in a telephone conversation, he said, “The information is vague. We urge those making these claims to be more specific for a proper investigation. No officers are currently charged with such activities.”