Police Arrest Suspects Posing as EFCC Operatives in Niger State

Three suspects were arrested for impersonating EFCC operatives to kidnap and rob students at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University in Niger. Armed with tasers disguised as guns, they initially demanded N10 million ransom, later negotiating down. Police intervened quickly, arresting the suspects and discovering forged ID cards. One suspect fled the scene, and the police are now focused on apprehending him and dismantling the criminal network involved.

In a significant breakthrough, the Niger State Police Command has apprehended three individuals who allegedly posed as operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). These suspects, identified as Emmanuel Linus, 30; Hyelda Aliyu, 28; and Abduljallid Tanko, 33, all hailing from Abuja, were involved in a kidnapping and robbery incident targeting students at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, located in Lapai.

The unlawful activities occurred on May 13 when the suspects stormed the students’ off-campus residence, falsely presenting themselves as EFCC officials. Armed with electric tasers disguised as guns, they managed to abduct two students and initially demanded a ransom of N10 million, which they subsequently negotiated down to N500,000. This manipulation was a part of a calculated scheme that highlights the concerning trend of impersonation.

Acting swiftly on actionable intelligence, police operatives from the Lapai Division intercepted the gang along Suleja Road in Kwakuti. The police successfully detained the trio in their getaway vehicle, a Toyota Corolla bearing the registration number ABJ 245 CU. However, one accomplice, Alfa James, managed to evade capture during the police operation.

Upon interrogation, the apprehended suspects divulged that they had been invited to commit the crime by informants, identified as Mohammed Hassan and Hamisu Adamu, both residents of Angwan-Hausa in Lapai. This suggests a more extensive network involved in such criminal activities.

Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the suspects possessed forged EFCC ID cards, all printed in Nyanya, Abuja, and curiously bearing the identical fraudulent ID number, 1069. This points to a well-organized operation, at least on their part, although the police have been relentless in their pursuit.

Interestingly, Emmanuel Linus was also found to have a troubling background. The police disclosed that he is a dismissed soldier with a history of criminal offenses, having been previously convicted two years ago. This raises serious concerns about the motivations and intentions of individuals who have access to weapons, even if they are not firearms.

The Niger State Police Command has reassured the public regarding their commitment to safety. The police have vowed to continue efforts not only to capture the fugitive suspect, but also to dismantle the broader criminal network that facilitated these arrests. As investigations progress, it remains crucial that the community remains vigilant against such impersonation schemes, which pose a significant risk.

In conclusion, the Niger State Police have made significant strides in detaining three individuals who impersonated EFCC operatives for the purposes of kidnapping and robbery. With ongoing investigations aimed at capturing an accomplice and disrupting related criminal networks, police efforts underscore the importance of public vigilance in the face of rising impersonation crimes. The case serves as a reminder of the persistent threats posed by such fraudulent activities.

Original Source: punchng.com