Suspect dies during EFCC sting operation at Lekki estate

Endurance Udeke, a resident of Periwinkle Estate, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, has died following an alleged failed attempt to evade arrest during a sting operation conducted by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The anti-graft agency said in a statement on Saturday that its operatives carried out the operation on November 4, targeting suspected internet fraudsters within the estate.

According to the EFCC, four suspects were arrested during the operation.

The agency said the late Udeke and another resident of an apartment, W6a, became aware of the operation and tried to escape by jumping from a four-storey building.

Udeke sustained severe injuries and later died despite medical efforts to save him, the agency said, adding that the other resident survived after receiving treatment in hospital.

The EFCC said there was no direct contact between its officers and Udeke before the incident, noting that the incident has been reported to the police.

“Operatives of the Commission were in the Estate to carry out a sting operation on November 4, 2025. The operation was smooth sailing in all the apartments, and four suspected internet fraudsters were arrested,” the statement reads.

“However, Udeke and one other resident of apartment W6a got wind of the operation and tried to escape arrest by jumping down from the four-storey building.

“Udeke did not survive the suicidal efforts, in spite of medical interventions made to rescue him.

“The other resident, however, survived after being stabilised and treated at the hospital.

“The commission is shocked at the suicidal action of the deceased. There was no contact between officers of the Commission and the deceased before the unfortunate incident.

“The commission reported the incident to the police, which has begun an investigation into the incident.

“While we await the outcome of the investigation, it is important to remind the public that no one with nothing to hide has reason to be afraid of the EFCC sting operation.”