The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has warned Nigerians about a growing trend of impersonation and staged operations by criminals posing as its personnel.
In a statement released on Tuesday via its X (formerly Twitter) handle, the agency said intelligence reports point to fraudsters using “ingenious but fraudulent means” to damage its reputation and exploit unsuspecting members of the public.
According to the commission, one common tactic involves gangs targeting young people around eateries and recreational spots in major cities.
“Their modus operandi is laying ambush for innocent youths coming out of the Eateries and harassing them on unfounded suspicions of being internet fraudsters and dispossessing them of their valuables.
“These characters usually portray the identities of authentic EFCC officers by dressing in fake uniforms and moving their victims to locations bearing fictitious resemblance to an EFCC office.
“There is also a gang of itinerant criminals harassing innocent motorists on the identities of their number plates. These ones wield dangerous weapons to compel their victims to offer them money on trumped-up accusations.”
The agency also expressed concern over online impersonators and content creators who stage fake enforcement operations. It noted that such videos often depict forced entries and property damage, creating the false impression of legitimate EFCC activities.
“The public is enjoined to be circumspect in its evaluation of claims intended to drag the Commission’s image into the mud,” the EFCC said.
The commission emphasised that it operates under clearly defined procedures and maintains official channels for reporting misconduct by its officers. It urged Nigerians not to allow the actions of impostors to undermine confidence in its work, reaffirming its commitment to combating economic and financial crimes.
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