EFCC Commences Investigation Into Alleged Arbitrary Arrest, Detention By Operatives In Benue

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned that appropriate sanctions would be placed on whoever is found to have acted out of character in regards to the recent arrest by its officers, of Mnena Ato, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Star Shawarma, a pastry firm in Makurdi, Benue State, over an alleged 1600 naira fraud.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday by the Spokesman of the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, said the commission had commenced investigations into the circumstances of Ato’s arrest and “would leave no stone unturned in ensuring that all facts related to the arrest are unearthed.”

According to the statement, it is not in the character of the EFCC to act arbitrarily, adding that the anti-graft agency was always guided by global best practices in its operations.

“The Commission wishes to assure members of the public of its commitment to best professional practices and excellent conduct of all its  men and officers,” the statement reads briefly.

“As the Commission continues to pursue its mandate of ridding the nation of economic and financial crimes, appropriate sanctions would be placed on whoever is found to have acted out of character regarding the Benue arrest.”

According to reports, few days ago, the EFCC staff, whose name was given as Hembafan Toryila, made a purchase worth 1,500 Naira at Star Shawarma and transferred 1,600 Naira to the business’ account.

However, the business owners didn’t notice the alert on time and they kept contacting her about making payment.

When they finally noticed the payment she made, they called to apologize. But she wouldn’t forgive easily and allegedly vowed to deal with them.

On Wednesday, May 6, she allegedly mobilized uniformed men to go to the eatery and arrest the owner and staff. Following their arrest, the staff were reportedly detained at EFCC office in Makurdi.