Operatives of the Ibadan zonal directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested one hundred and twenty-seven suspected internet fraudsters in Akure, the Ondo state capital.
According to EFCC, the alleged internet fraudsters were arrested in an early morning sting operation at a “Yahoo Party” held simultaneously at Signature and Abah Clubs on Saturday, June 8, in Akure, Ondo State.
However, in his reaction, a federal lawmaker representing Ondo East/West Federal constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Abiola Makinde has condemned the raid, describing it as an invasion of privacy of innocent Nigerians.
A statement by EFCC head of media and publicity, Dele Oyewale stated that credible intelligence showed that the alleged party was initially scheduled for Wednesday, June 5, 2024, but was later moved to Saturday to beat security and intelligence networks of the EFCC.
Oyewale said the suspects have given useful information to investigators of the Directorate.
He said: “Items recovered from them include ten exotic cars, phones, laptops, motor-cycle, wristwatches and many incriminating documents. They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.”
Meanwhile, the lawmaker representing the Ondo East/West Federal constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Abiola Makinde, who is also the chairman of the House Committee on Human Rights said the raid was quite disturbing.
A statement by Makinde’s media aide, Moshood Alli stated that after contacting the leader of the team who raided the club, he was told that they had their orders and intelligence report before the raid.
The lawmaker urged people in the area to remain calm while the matter is investigated and resolved.
He said: “Absolutely, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as Nigeria’s premier anti-graft agency, has a critical role in combating financial crimes.
“However, it is imperative that in the pursuit of justice, the EFCC adheres strictly to the principles of human rights.
“Reports of raids leading to violations of personal dignity and privacy, such as the incident involving a former Big Brother Naija housemate, highlights the need for the EFCC to conduct operations with respect for the law and human decency.
“Please note that the agency’s mandate to investigate financial crimes does not exempt it from the obligation to respect human rights, which includes ensuring that raids are conducted legally, with proper warrants, and without undue harm to individuals.
“The concerns raised by various incidents underscore the importance of accountability and adherence to human rights standards to maintain public trust in law enforcement agencies.
“I’ll activate the State Director of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Sunday Oyewole, to look into the matter. Any violations will be addressed between the two federal agencies.”
