The Kano Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a thorough investigation into a case involving Ahmad Salisu, who was apprehended by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for allegedly attempting to smuggle substantial undeclared foreign currencies.
The undisclosed amounts include $420,900, £5,825, CFA3,946,500, and Cameroonian CFA 224,000.
Salisu’s arrest occurred on July 7, during a routine inspection conducted by Customs operatives at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano.
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A physical search of his luggage reportedly uncovered the cash meticulously hidden within a polythene bag, concealed by clothing and other fabrics.
Upon his apprehension, Salisu purportedly informed authorities that he was transporting the funds on behalf of his brother, Auwal Ahmad, who is currently in Saudi Arabia.
The money was allegedly intended for two individuals, Yusuf Adamu and Abdulhamid Rabiu, both of whom were subsequently arrested when they arrived to claim the funds.
Following initial questioning and documentation, the Nigeria Customs Service transferred Salisu, Adamu, Rabiu, and the recovered currencies to the EFCC for deeper investigation and potential prosecution.
During a joint press briefing held at the Kano/Jigawa Area Command office of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ibrahim Shazali, the Kano Zonal Director of the EFCC, affirmed the unwavering commitment of both the agencies to combat illegal cash smuggling and all other forms of economic and financial crimes.
“The EFCC and the Nigerian Customs Service, working in concert, have zero tolerance for illegal cash smuggling,” Shazali stated.
He further cautioned against attempts to evade financial regulations, adding, “Our surveillance is active, our intelligence is sharp, and our resolve to apprehend offenders is unwavering. Attempting to circumvent our financial laws and border controls is a futile and costly endeavour.”
Shazali also appealed to the general public and stakeholders to maintain vigilance and report any suspicious movement of large sums of cash across Nigerian borders, emphasising that ‘Protecting the integrity of our economy is a collective responsibility.’
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In his remarks, Dalhatu Abubakar, the Customs Area Comptroller, underscored that currency declaration protocols are an integral part of Nigeria’s broader strategy against money laundering and terrorist financing.
He stressed the importance of bolstering all efforts to safeguard the sanctity of national borders in this regard.
“The currency declaration regime is part of a holistic anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures provided in our laws to protect the sanctity and integrity of the Nigerian financial system,” Abubakar explained.
“The measures are also aimed at controlling the flow of funds to criminal networks, terrorists, bandits, and drug barons whose activities jeopardize our national security.”
The three suspects are expected to face charges in court soon.
