In a dramatic turn of events, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released seven serving military personnel suspected of involvement in internet-related fraud. The suspects, comprising one Army personnel and six from the Nigerian Air Force, were initially arrested by the Kaduna Zonal office of the anti-graft agency on Monday for further investigation and possible prosecution.
However, the situation escalated on Friday morning when armed soldiers from the Nigerian Air Force reportedly invaded the EFCC office in Kaduna to enforce the release of their detained colleagues. The soldiers, arriving in five Hilux patrol vans, surrounded the EFCC office, causing a standoff between Air Force personnel and EFCC security operatives.
Tensions rose as both sides engaged in a shouting match, with threats exchanged. After a brief meeting between the EFCC Zonal Head and the Air Force team leader, the suspects were eventually released.
EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale, in a statement, emphasized that the release followed the completion of an investigation and forensic profiling. He highlighted the EFCC’s exercise of restraint despite provocation and abuse of power, further stating that the suspects were handed over to the Nigerian Air Force Provost after due profiling.
Oyewale clarified that the release and transfer of the suspects were in line with the commission’s operating procedure. Despite their release to the Air Force, the EFCC affirmed that the suspects would still face arraignment in court at the appropriate time, underscoring the commitment to due process and legal proceedings. The incident sheds light on the delicate balance between law enforcement agencies and the military, emphasizing the importance of adherence to established protocols.
