EFCC probes foreign currencies intercepted at Kano airport

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Kano Zonal Directorate has commenced an investigation of $86,500, 305,150 Saudi Riyals, and 200 Euros intercepted at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano State.

The EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, April 28, 2025.

Oyewale said the funds were discovered in an unaccompanied bag suspected to have been smuggled into the country and intercepted on Sunday, April 27, when a clearing agent, Sale Bala, attempted to retrieve the bag.

Oyewale said upon physical inspection, the officers of the Nigeria Customs Service uncovered the foreign currencies concealed in bed spreads (duvets) and date packs tucked in the luggage.

He noted that further investigation led to the arrest of Bala and a second suspect, Abdullahi Tahir, who was tasked with receiving the bag after clearance.

Oyewale disclosed that the money was handed over to the EFCC by the Chief Superintendent of Customs, CSC Abdulahi Hashim.

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The EFCC spokesman said the suspects and the seized funds are in the custody of the commission and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

He added: “The EFCC commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and reiterated the importance of inter-agency cooperation in safeguarding the nation’s economy.

“The Commission, in collaboration with Customs and other stakeholders, is intensifying efforts to enlighten stakeholders on the legal requirements for cash movement and the consequences of non-compliance.”

Oyewale further stated that the EFCC, the ICPC, and Customs jointly organised a sensitization programme on Saturday, April 26, to educate all stakeholders about cash movement in and out of Nigeria on the legal requirements for the movement of cash as enshrined in the Nigerian laws and regulations.

The Star