The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit Zone A, has handed over undeclared foreign currencies totaling $20,000 and 110,000 West African CFA Francs to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following a recent interception near the Seme Border.
How the Interception Happened
According to Hussaini Abdullahi, Public Relations Officer of the command, the interception occurred on Sunday at about 11:45 p.m. during a routine surveillance operation along the Babapupa bush paths.
The patrol team intercepted a Nissan Almera suspected of being smuggled, but the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into the bush to evade arrest.
Upon searching the vehicle, Customs officers discovered the concealed foreign currencies, with a total estimated value of ₦30.8 million.
NCS Explains Legal Implications
Customs Area Controller Mohammed Shuaibu explained that the interception aligns with the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which mandate the declaration of any currency above $10,000 (or its equivalent) at Nigerian borders.
“This arrest underscores our relentless commitment to combating illicit financial flows and protecting Nigeria’s economy. It also reflects the importance of compliance with currency declaration laws,” Shuaibu said.
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He added that the NCS recently launched a sensitization campaign to educate stakeholders on the legal requirements for currency declaration at entry and exit points.
EFCC to Investigate and Prosecute
The seized cash has been officially handed over to the EFCC for further investigation. Shehu Mohammed, an EFCC Assistant Director, who received the funds, praised the collaboration between both agencies:
“This handover highlights the strong synergy between EFCC and Customs in enforcing Nigeria’s financial laws. We will conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate legal action,” he said.
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