The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has denied allegations of harassment and misconduct during a recent sting operation at Majesty Estate, NTA Road, Port Harcourt, which led to the arrest of 37 suspected internet fraudsters.
The Commission issued the rebuttal after a viral video showed a damaged door, accompanied by claims that EFCC operatives forcefully entered apartments and harassed innocent residents during the raid on Friday.
In a statement on Saturday, EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, described the reports and video as “strange and unwarranted,” insisting that operatives acted professionally and followed due process.
He explained that operatives visited an apartment identified through intelligence reports. However, the occupants allegedly refused to open the door, even after EFCC personnel identified themselves and explained their mission.
“As a result, one of the doors was prised open to conduct a search. No arrest was made at that apartment, nor was any item recovered. No misconduct occurred during the operation,” the statement read.
Oyewale added that the raid followed a distress call from estate residents who had raised concerns about the rising number of suspected fraudsters in the area. He claimed many residents welcomed the EFCC’s presence and commended their efforts.
“The Commission finds the viral video and reports of harassment surprising, especially as many residents of the estate expressed appreciation for the operation,” Oyewale noted.
He reaffirmed EFCC’s commitment to professionalism and the rule of law, adding that the Commission would not hesitate to discipline any officer found guilty of overstepping legal boundaries.
“The Commission remains firmly committed to ethical conduct and will take disciplinary action against any operative who acts beyond the law,” he concluded.