The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned Nigerians about a surge in criminal activities involving individuals impersonating its operatives and staging fake enforcement operations.
- +EFCC raises alarm over rising impersonation, fake sting operations
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Commission said it had uncovered multiple schemes by fraudsters aimed at tarnishing its image and exploiting unsuspecting members of the public.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Commission said it had uncovered multiple schemes by fraudsters aimed at tarnishing its image and exploiting unsuspecting members of the public.
The anti-graft agency described the trend as an “increasing wave of attacks” orchestrated by criminal elements posing as EFCC officials.
According to the statement signed by Dele Oyewale, its Head of Media and Publicity, intelligence reports indicate that the impostors employ “ingenious but fraudulent means” to deceive victims, particularly in major cities.
One of the schemes, the Commission revealed, involves gangs targeting young people at eateries and recreational spots.
“These impostors allegedly lie in wait for individuals leaving such locations, accuse them of internet fraud without evidence, and forcibly collect valuables.
“To appear legitimate, the suspects reportedly wear fake EFCC uniforms and transport victims to locations designed to resemble official EFCC offices”, the statement read.
The EFCC also disclosed the existence of another group of criminals who target motorists.
These individuals reportedly stop vehicles based on number plate details and use threats, including the display of weapons, to extort money from victims under false pretences.
In addition, the Commission raised concerns about online impersonators and content creators producing staged videos of fake EFCC raids.
These dramatizations often feature scenes of forced entry, including broken doors and windows, which the EFCC described as inconsistent with its standard procedures.
The agency warned that such misleading portrayals could cause the public to wrongly associate these unlawful actions with legitimate EFCC operations.
“The public is enjoined to be circumspect in its evaluation of claims intended to drag the Commission’s image into the mud,” the statement said,
It stressed that the EFCC operates under established standard procedures and provides official channels for lodging complaints.
Reaffirming its commitment to tackling corruption and financial crimes, the Commission urged Nigerians not to allow the actions of impersonators and blackmailers to undermine confidence in its work.
The EFCC also called on citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, as it continues efforts to identify and bring perpetrators of these fraudulent schemes to justice.
