UYO, Nigeria (FN) — Police authorities in Akwa Ibom State have confirmed that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) conducted a raid in the state capital, Uyo, dismissing widespread claims that the operation was an “abduction.”
The confirmation came amid public concern over reports that several individuals were taken away by unidentified men during a late-night sting operation on Friday.
In a statement on Saturday, the state police spokesperson, CSP Timfon John, said investigations showed that the operatives involved were EFCC officials carrying out a legitimate assignment. She urged residents to disregard “false and misleading reports” suggesting that kidnappers or armed men were responsible for the incident.
“The command wishes to clarify that the men in question were operatives of the EFCC on official duty. There was no abduction, and no cause for public fear,” John said.
She added that the EFCC had duly notified the police before embarking on the operation, in line with inter-agency protocols. “We continue to maintain cooperation with other security agencies to ensure public safety and accountability,” she said.
EFCC spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren confirmed that the operation targeted individuals suspected of cybercrime and related financial offenses. He said the exercise was “lawful, intelligence-driven, and conducted professionally.”
“EFCC does not abduct citizens. All arrests are made under the authority of the law, and suspects are treated with respect for their rights,” Uwujaren said.
Responding to public anxiety, Akwa Ibom’s Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, said the state government was aware of the operation and had received assurance from the EFCC and police that due process was followed.
“The government recognizes the EFCC’s statutory responsibility to investigate and prosecute financial crimes but urges that such operations be carried out with sensitivity to public peace,” Ememobong said in a statement.
He added that the administration would continue to engage with federal agencies to ensure that law enforcement activities do not disrupt the peace and security of residents.
The EFCC has recently intensified operations across southern Nigeria as part of a broader crackdown on internet fraud and corruption.
