EFCC, not bandits, raided Niger hotel – Police
The Niger State Police Command has debunked reports claiming that 10 hotel guests were abducted by bandits disguised as operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Initial reports (not by The PUNCH) suggested that the armed men stormed White Hill Hotel on Shiroro Road, Chanchaga Local Government Area, Niger State, posing as EFCC operatives.
They allegedly disabled the hotel’s CCTV cameras before forcibly taking 10 individuals to an unknown destination.
The report also cited an unnamed Assistant Commissioner of Police, State Intelligence Department, stating that investigations were underway to identify the culprits and locate the abducted victims.
The ACP was quoted as urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
However, when contacted by The PUNCH on Sunday, Niger State Police Command spokesman, Wasiu Abiodun, dismissed the claims, clarifying that the operation was, in fact, carried out by EFCC operatives.
“The Niger State Police Command wishes to respond to reports circulating in some online media that bandits attacked a hotel in Minna and abducted ten persons. This narrative is false. The operation was conducted by EFCC operatives,” Abiodun stated.
Meanwhile, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the arrest of 11 suspected internet fraudsters during the raid.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Oyewale refuted claims of abduction, emphasising that the operation was conducted professionally.
“The EFCC, Kaduna Zonal Directorate, on Thursday, February 27, 2025, arrested 11 suspected internet fraudsters at White Hill Hotel, Chanchaga LGA, Niger State, following credible intelligence on their alleged involvement in fraudulent internet activities,” the statement read.
Recovered items included two vehicles and 13 mobile phones of different brands.
“The commission’s operatives carried out the arrest professionally, with no motive or element of abduction,” Oyewale added, assuring that the suspects would be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
