The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has provided clarification on the circumstances leading to the death of a resident, Mr Endurance Udeke, during a sting operation at Periwinkle Estate, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, on Tuesday, November 4.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the Commission described the incident as “unfortunate” and expressed deep concern over what it termed the “suicidal action” of the deceased.
“The Commission feels obliged to clear the air on circumstances leading to the passing of citizen Endurance Udeke, a resident of apartment W6a, Periwinkle Estate, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos,” Oyewale said.
According to the EFCC, its operatives were in the estate to conduct a sting operation targeting suspected internet fraudsters.
Oyewale explained that the operation had proceeded “smoothly” in all apartments until Udeke and another resident allegedly attempted to evade arrest.
“The operation was smooth sailing in all the apartments and four suspected internet fraudsters were arrested.
“However, Udeke and one other resident of apartment W6a got wind of the operation and tried to escape arrest by jumping down from the four-storey building,” the statement revealed.
Tragically, Udeke did not survive the fall despite efforts to save him.
“Udeke did not survive the suicidal efforts, in spite of medical interventions made to rescue him.
“The other resident, however, survived after being stabilised and treated at the hospital,” Oyewale added.
Oyewale stated that the Commission had promptly reached out to the deceased’s family to explain what transpired and the steps taken to save his life.
“As a responsible law enforcement agency, the Commission contacted Udeke’s family with details of circumstances leading to his death.
“Efforts and medical interventions made to ensure his survival before his eventual passing were appreciated by the family,” Oyewale explained.
He further emphasised that there was no direct contact between EFCC operatives and the deceased before the fatal incident occurred.
“The Commission is shocked at the suicidal action of the deceased. There was no contact between officers of the Commission and the deceased before the unfortunate incident,” he said.
Oyewale disclosed that the EFCC has reported the case to the Nigeria Police, which has commenced investigations into the matter.
“The Commission reported the incident to the Police, which has begun investigation into the incident.
“While we await the outcome of the investigation, it is important to remind the public that no one with nothing to hide has reason to be afraid of EFCC sting operation,” he warned.
