The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released an official statement clarifying the events that led to the death of Endurance Udeke, a resident of apartment W6a in Periwinkle Estate, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, during a sting operation on Tuesday, November 4.
According to the Commission, its operatives were in the estate to conduct a lawful operation that resulted in the arrest of four suspected internet fraudsters. However, during the exercise, Udeke and another resident of the same apartment reportedly attempted to escape by jumping from a four-storey building.
“The operation was smooth in all the apartments, and four suspected internet fraudsters were arrested. However, Udeke and one other resident of apartment W6a got wind of the operation and tried to escape arrest by jumping down from the four-storey building,” the statement read. “Udeke did not survive the fall despite medical efforts to save him, while the other resident was stabilized and treated at the hospital.”
The EFCC stated that it promptly informed Udeke’s family about the circumstances of his death and the medical efforts made to save his life.
“The Commission is deeply shocked by the suicidal action of the deceased. There was no physical contact between EFCC operatives and the deceased before the tragic incident,” the statement continued.
It added that the incident has been officially reported to the police, who have commenced an investigation into the matter.
“While we await the outcome of the investigation, the public is reminded that no one with nothing to hide has any reason to fear an EFCC operation,” the statement concluded.
