The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and its chairman, Ola Olukoyede, for their support in an international operation targeting online sextortion networks accused of exploiting minors.

The commendation followed the EFCC’s role in Operation Artemis, a joint international investigation aimed at disrupting financially motivated sextortion schemes targeting children.

In a letter to Olukoyede, FBI Director Kash Patel praised the commission for its cooperation in the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudashiru Afeez Olawale, to the United States to face federal charges.

Patel said the EFCC had played a vital role in the operation, noting that the commission designated personnel to support investigations and facilitate the suspects’ transfer to the United States for prosecution.

The two suspects, who were indicted in the US in 2023, were extradited in August 2026 following investigations and extradition proceedings facilitated by the EFCC.

They are facing charges relating to the alleged sexual exploitation and extortion of minors.

According to the FBI, investigations into separate sextortion schemes linked the suspects’ alleged activities to two teenage victims in the United States who died by suicide after experiencing online sexual exploitation and extortion.

Patel said the successful outcome of the cases would not have been possible without the EFCC’s assistance and commitment to international law enforcement cooperation.

“The successful outcome of these cases would not have been possible without your assistance and dedication to international law enforcement collaboration,” he said.

The FBI director also expressed appreciation to Olukoyede and the commission for their commitment to justice, adding that he looked forward to strengthening cooperation between both agencies.

The commendation was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale.