The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a public alert warning Nigerians about a surge in criminal activities by individuals impersonating its officers and carrying out fake sting operations across major cities.

In a statement signed by its head of media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, yesterday, the anti-graft agency said intelligence reports revealed that fraudsters are deploying “ingenious but fraudulent means” to tarnish its image while exploiting unsuspecting members of the public.

According to the EFCC, one group of impostors operates around eateries and nightlife spots, where they ambush young people, falsely accusing them of internet fraud and dispossessing them of valuables.

The suspects, according to the statement, reportedly wear fake EFCC uniforms and transport victims to locations designed to resemble the official commission’s offices.

The agency also unveiled the activities of another gang targeting motorists. These criminals allegedly stop drivers based on their number plates, brandish weapons, and extort money through fabricated allegations.

The EFCC urged Nigerians to remain cautious and critically assess claims or operations purportedly linked to the commission.

HOWEVER, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed a widely circulated video alleging a N50 billion bribery scandal, describing it as false, misleading, and partly generated using artificial intelligence (AI).

In a statement, the commission said the viral content has no connection to its operations or investigations, and urged the public to disregard it entirely.

Spokesperson, Okor Odey, stated that the individuals, claims, and visuals featured in the video were fabricated to deceive viewers and damage the agency’s credibility.

“The content being circulated is entirely false. The images, names, and narratives presented are manufactured and, in some cases, AI-generated to mislead the public,” he said.

The commission stressed that it is not investigating any individual, including any Senior Advocate of Nigeria, legal practitioners, or members of the judiciary, in relation to the alleged N50 billion bribery claim.