EFCC denies harassment during Lekki estate raid

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has denied claims of harassment, intimidation, and unlawful arrests during its raid on Applewood Estate in Lekki, Lagos State. On Monday, October 26, 2026, at around 5 am, the commission's operatives from Lagos Directorate 1 conducted a sting operation to apprehend 21 suspected cybercrime fraudsters.

The EFCC Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, stated that the operation targeted individuals allegedly defrauding victims through gift cards, cryptocurrencies, and international money transfers while impersonating others. Five exotic cars were recovered during the operation, which was conducted after diligent pre-arrest surveillance.

Of the 21 suspects arrested, 19 were indicted, while the other two were released. A young woman who attempted to alert the suspects by making telephone calls was held and her phone confiscated until the operation's completion. The EFCC emphasized that the raid was professionally conducted, with no record of harassment, intimidation, or unlawful arrest.

The commission encouraged public support against economic and financial crimes, but warned against blackmail and alarmism undermining its mandate.