by Deborah Dan-Awoh
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a four-member syndicate accused of impersonating its Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, in a fraudulent scheme valued at $1 million.
The arrests, made on Wednesday, mark a significant step in the EFCC’s ongoing battle against financial crime and corruption in Nigeria.
According to a statement from EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the suspects were apprehended at two locations in Abuja—Gimbiya Street in Garki and the Apo Legislative Quarters—following an intelligence tip-off regarding their activities. The suspects reportedly posed as Olukoyede and contacted Mr. Mohammed Bello-Koko, the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
In a deceitful move, they informed Bello-Koko that he was under investigation by the EFCC for alleged misconduct during his tenure at the NPA. Capitalizing on this false narrative, the syndicate demanded a payment of $1 million, threatening arrest and prosecution if he did not comply.
“The impersonators allegedly demanded one million dollars from Bello-Koko, threatening arrest and prosecution if he failed to comply,” Oyewale stated. After receiving credible intelligence about the syndicate’s actions, the EFCC swiftly mobilized its operatives for an investigation. This coordinated effort led to the successful arrest of the suspects, who are now in EFCC custody.
“The suspects are currently in EFCC custody and will be charged to court once investigations are concluded,” Oyewale added. This crackdown highlights the EFCC’s commitment to combating fraud and safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system.
The EFCC has been actively addressing various financial crimes nationwide, and this arrest adds to a series of high-profile cases. The apprehension of individuals impersonating top officials emphasizes the sophisticated methods employed by fraudsters and the critical need for vigilance and timely action from law enforcement agencies.
This case also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the EFCC in its mission to combat financial crime and uphold public trust in Nigeria’s institutions. As investigations continue, more details regarding the syndicate’s operations and potential accomplices are anticipated, shedding light on the extent of this criminal enterprise.
