The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has provided clarification regarding the tragic death of a Lagos resident during one of its operations earlier this week.
The Fatal Incident at Periwinkle Estate
Endurance Udeke, a resident of apartment W6a at Periwinkle Estate in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, lost his life on Tuesday, November 4, during what the EFCC described as a sting operation. According to the commission's official statement, their operatives were conducting a raid in the upscale estate when the unfortunate incident occurred.
The operation had been proceeding smoothly across various apartments, resulting in the arrest of four suspected internet fraudsters. However, the situation took a dramatic turn when Udeke and another resident from the same apartment became aware of the ongoing operation and attempted to escape arrest.
The Desperate Escape Attempt
In what the EFCC has characterized as a suicidal effort to avoid capture, both men jumped from the four-storey building. While the other resident survived after receiving medical treatment and stabilization at a hospital, Udeke did not survive the fall despite immediate medical interventions aimed at saving his life.
The commission emphasized that as a responsible law enforcement agency, it promptly contacted Udeke's family to provide details of the circumstances that led to his death. The family reportedly appreciated the efforts and medical interventions made to ensure his survival before his eventual passing.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
In their statement, the EFCC expressed shock at the deceased's suicidal action and maintained that there was no direct contact between their officers and Udeke before the tragic incident. The commission has reported the matter to the police, who have begun their own investigation into what exactly transpired.
While awaiting the outcome of the police investigation, the EFCC used the opportunity to remind the public that law-abiding citizens have no reason to fear their operations. The statement concluded by reinforcing that individuals with nothing to hide should not feel threatened by EFCC sting operations.
This incident has raised questions about the procedures followed during such operations and the extreme measures some individuals take when faced with potential arrest. The police investigation is expected to provide more clarity on the sequence of events that led to this unfortunate loss of life.
