Joyce Mmereole Okoli
In a renewed offensive against illicit financial flows, operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, have intercepted a large sum of undeclared foreign currency including $20,000 and 110,000 West African CFA Francs along bush paths near the Seme border in Lagos State.
The interception, which took place late Sunday night around 11:45 p.m., was disclosed by the Customs Comptroller of FOU Zone A, Mohammed Shuaibu, during the official handover of the seized funds to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to Comptroller Shuaibu, the discovery followed a routine patrol by Customs officers who intercepted a suspicious Nissan Almera vehicle. The driver reportedly abandoned the car and fled into the bush upon spotting the officers.
“A physical inspection of the vehicle revealed foreign currencies concealed within. The total value of the seized funds is approximately ₦30,861,651,” the Comptroller stated.
He emphasized that the seizure was a direct result of the vigilance and commitment of Customs officers and aligns with Nigeria’s legislative frameworks particularly the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023 which require the declaration of any currency exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent at Nigerian borders.
“This interception is a clear signal to perpetrators of financial crimes that our officers are alert and committed to protecting the national economy,” Shuaibu said.
He further called on members of the public and stakeholders to take advantage of ongoing sensitization efforts initiated by the Service on the legal requirements for currency declaration.
In continuation of its inter-agency collaboration drive, the NCS has handed over the seized currencies to the EFCC for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Assistant Director Shehu Mohammed, who represented the EFCC’s Zonal Coordinator during the handover, praised the Customs Service for its diligence.
“This seizure highlights the synergy between our agencies. The EFCC will now conduct a comprehensive investigation to uncover those behind this act and take appropriate legal action,” he said.
The Public Relations Officer of Customs FOU Zone A, Mr. Hussaini Abdullahi, issued the press statement confirming the details of the operation.