Niger State Police Arrest Impersonators Posing as EFCC Operatives

Three suspects impersonating EFCC operatives were arrested in Niger State after abducting and attempting to rob students of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University. Police responded rapidly, capturing the suspects and their vehicle, though one escaped. Investigations revealed prior criminal history and fraudulent activities linked to the suspects.

The Niger State Police Command recently apprehended three individuals posing as operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with a robbery incident at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University in Lapai. This operation unfolded on May 13, when the suspects, identified as Emmanuel Linus, 30, Hyelda Aliyu, 28, and Abduljallid Tanko, 33, all hailing from Abuja, invaded a student lodge.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, the suspects wielded electric tasers disguised as firearms during their pretentious operation, abducting two students and demanding an initial ransom of N10 million. Following negotiations, they lowered their demand to N500,000.

A rapid response from police operatives based in the Lapai Division led to the interception of the suspects along Suleja Road, near Kwakuti. Authorities seized their getaway vehicle, a Toyota Corolla bearing the registration number ABJ 245 CU, during the apprehension. It was reported that one member of the group, identified as Alfa James, managed to escape from the scene amid the police operation.

Further investigations revealed that the suspects had been assisted by informants Mohammed Hassan and Hamisu Adamu, both residing in Angwan-Hausa, Lapai. The police also disclosed that the suspects possessed forged EFCC ID cards, all of which emanated from a print shop in Nyanya, Abuja, and suspiciously all carried the same fraudulent identification number, 1069.

In addition, Emmanuel Linus was noted to have a troubled past; he is a dismissed soldier with prior criminal convictions, having been previously convicted just two years ago. The Niger State Police Command has emphasized its commitment to public safety, asserting that they are actively pursuing the escaped suspect and working towards dismantling the wider criminal network involved in these unlawful activities.

The recent arrest of three individuals impersonating EFCC officers highlights a significant concern regarding safety, especially for students. The quick actions of the Niger State Police led to the thwarting of a serious crime, but challenges remain, notably with one suspect still at large. Authorities are pressing forward to ensure community safety and justice for the victims.

Original Source: punchng.com