The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Kano Zonal Directorate, has launched an investigation into the seizure of foreign currencies valued at $86,500 (Eighty-Six Thousand, Five Hundred United States Dollars), 305,150 (Three Hundred and Five Thousand, One Hundred and Fifty Saudi Riyals), and 200 Euros at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The confiscated funds were discovered in an unaccompanied bag suspected to have been smuggled into the country. Officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted the bag on Sunday, April 27, 2025, when a clearing agent, Sale Bala, attempted to retrieve it.
Upon physical examination, Customs officers uncovered the concealed foreign currencies hidden within bedspreads (duvets) and date packages tucked inside the luggage. Further investigation led to the arrest of Bala and a second suspect, Abdullahi Tahir, who was allegedly assigned to receive the bag after clearance.
Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Abdulahi Hashim officially handed over the confiscated funds to the EFCC, represented by Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE II) Aminu Bashir.
The suspects, along with the seized funds, are currently in the custody of the EFCC. They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
In a statement, the EFCC commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and emphasized the critical role of inter-agency collaboration in safeguarding Nigeria’s economy. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with Customs and other stakeholders to promote compliance with financial regulations.
As part of its proactive efforts, on Saturday, April 26, 2025, the EFCC, alongside the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigeria Customs Service, organized a sensitization program aimed at educating stakeholders about the legal requirements governing the movement of cash in and out of Nigeria.
The event, which recorded impressive attendance, brought together participants from the bureau de change community, travel agencies, airport authorities, pilgrim boards, and the Kano Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The EFCC urged all stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with the relevant laws to prevent legal infractions and preserve the integrity of the nation’s financial system.