EFCC probes Kano passengers over undeclared $461,600

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into two passengers intercepted at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport with a total of $461,600 in undeclared cash.

The suspects, Jamilu Shuaibu Waya and Usman Namadi, were apprehended by operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kano/Jigawa Area Command, upon their arrival from Dubai on Ethiopian Airline flight ET941 on May 8, 2026.

According to the EFCC, both men had initially declared $130,000 and $180,000 respectively at the airport’s currency declaration desk. However, a subsequent physical search by Customs officers uncovered additional undeclared sums — $120,000 on Waya and $31,600 on Namadi.

The discovery raised the total amount recovered from the duo to $461,600, in violation of Sections 3 and 4 of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Speaking during the handover of the suspects and the seized funds, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller UU Adamu, commended the continued collaboration between the NCS and the EFCC in curbing illicit financial flows.

He noted that the partnership has strengthened efforts to combat illegal cash movements across Nigeria’s borders.

Receiving the suspects, EFCC Kano Zonal Director, Assistant Commander Friday S. Ebelo, assured that the commission would carry out a thorough investigation and ensure diligent prosecution.

He emphasised that offenders of anti-money laundering laws would face the full weight of justice, while also praising the Customs Service for its consistent cooperation.

The suspects, along with the recovered cash and other exhibits, have since been transferred to the EFCC Kano Zonal Directorate for further investigation and possible prosecution.