NIGERIA: EFCC Investigates Suspect Over Concealed Foreign Currencies Worth Millions

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has launched a major investigation into a case involving the concealment and non-declaration of large sums of foreign currency intercepted at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.

The suspect, Ahmad Salisu, was arrested by operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service during a routine security check on Monday, July 7, 2025.

Upon inspection, officials discovered \$420,900, £5,825, CFA3,946,500, and Cameroonian CFA 224,000 hidden inside a polythene bag buried under clothes in Salisu’s luggage.

Salisu allegedly confessed that he was transporting the funds on behalf of his brother, Auwal Ahmad, who is currently in Saudi Arabia.

He claimed the money was intended for delivery to two individuals in Nigeria.

The two recipients, Yusuf Adamu and Abdulhamid Rabiu, were also arrested upon arrival to collect the cash.

Following preliminary interrogation, the Nigeria Customs Service handed over the three suspects and the seized cash to the EFCC for further investigation and prosecution.

Speaking at a joint press briefing in Kano, EFCC Zonal Director Ibrahim Shazali reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to tackling illegal cash movements and financial crimes.

He warned that Nigeria’s borders are under close surveillance and that those attempting to bypass financial laws will be caught and prosecuted.

“Our intelligence is sharp, and our resolve is unwavering. Illegal cash smuggling is a futile and costly endeavour,” Shazali said.

He urged the public and stakeholders in the aviation and financial sectors to report suspicious movement of funds.

Customs Area Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar stressed that currency declaration is critical to Nigeria’s fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.

He said the laws are designed to cut off funding channels to criminal networks, including terrorists and drug traffickers.

The suspects are expected to be formally charged to court soon.