A man dies after attempting to flee EFCC raid in Lekki Estate, sparking widespread reactions and renewed discussions about the dangers of panic during law enforcement operations. The tragic incident occurred when Endurance Udeke, a resident of the luxurious Periwinkle Estate in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, reportedly jumped from a four-storey building in a desperate bid to escape arrest during an EFCC raid.
According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the operation took place on November 4 and targeted suspected internet fraudsters living within the high-end estate. The commission confirmed that four suspects were arrested during the sting operation, which was part of its ongoing crackdown on cybercrime and money laundering activities in Lagos and other parts of the country.
However, the incident took a tragic turn when Udeke and another resident, identified only as an occupant of apartment W6a, tried to evade arrest upon realizing the presence of EFCC operatives. In an official statement, the commission revealed that the two men “got wind of the operation and attempted to escape by jumping from the four-storey building.” Unfortunately, Endurance Udeke did not survive the fall, despite immediate efforts to save his life through medical intervention.
The second resident, on the other hand, sustained injuries but survived after receiving prompt medical attention. The EFCC raid in Lekki Estate has since drawn attention due to the unusual nature of the incident and the tragic outcome that followed.
The anti-graft agency expressed deep shock over the death of Udeke, describing his decision to jump as both “suicidal” and “unnecessary.” According to the EFCC, there was no direct confrontation between its officers and the deceased before the fatal incident occurred. “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 event,” the agency’s statement read in part.
Following the tragedy, the EFCC disclosed that it had promptly reported the case to the Nigeria Police Force, which has now launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. The agency emphasized that it operates strictly within the confines of the law and that its officers do not engage in any form of harassment or physical confrontation during operations.
In the aftermath of the man’s death after attempting to flee EFCC raid in Lekki Estate, the commission urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding during its activities. The EFCC reiterated that its raids are part of its statutory duty to combat financial crimes and that individuals who are not involved in illegal activities have nothing to fear.
“The EFCC advises citizens to cooperate with law enforcement and avoid dangerous or panic-driven actions during operations,” the statement added. The commission also reaffirmed its commitment to upholding human rights standards while carrying out its duties across the country.
The EFCC raid in Lekki Estate and the subsequent death of Endurance Udeke have once again highlighted the risks associated with impulsive reactions during law enforcement operations. Authorities have called for calm, assuring the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to ensure transparency and accountability in handling the case.
This tragic episode serves as a grim reminder that cooperation with law enforcement remains the safest course of action during such raids, as attempts to flee or resist could lead to devastating consequences — just as seen in this unfortunate incident where a man dies after attempting to flee EFCC raid in Lekki Estate.
Source: per multiple report