The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed that the agency arrested hundreds of suspected internet fraudsters, popularly known as “yahoo boys,” within two months.
Olukoyede made the disclosure during an exclusive interview on Channels Television seen by Dockaysworld.
He noted that the arrests followed hundreds of coordinated raids across different locations, many of which were not publicly reported.
He said the EFCC is empowered by law to conduct raids whenever necessary, stressing that the agency does not always require traditional warrants to carry out its operations.
When asked if the agency requires warrants for its raids, Olukoyede said the EFCC’s official badge serves as its warrant.
According to him, arresting suspected internet fraudsters requires careful planning and secrecy, as many of them deliberately avoid detection.
“Some of these guys can’t be seen in broad daylight; you have to plan your operations very professionally,” he said. “Some you don’t find in their houses; you find them in hotels and apartments.”
In the same interview, the EFCC chairman also addressed the ongoing money laundering trial against former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, insisting the case was not personal.
He explained that the investigation began before he assumed office and that he merely continued the process he inherited.
“His investigation predated me in the office. I inherited his investigation file; all I did was ensure the investigation was carried out in a very professional and thorough manner,” Olukoyede said.
He added that Malami has been under investigation for nearly two and a half years, starting shortly after the end of the Buhari administration.
Responding to questions about his own integrity, Olukoyede denied any involvement in corruption throughout his public service career.
“I have never been involved in any fraudulent activity all through my service in the public sector,” he said, adding, “No Nigerian can say I’ve collected money from them.”