The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced an investigation into US $86,500, 305,150 Saudi Riyals, and 200 Euros seized by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
EFCC disclosed that its Kano Zonal Directorate is handling the investigation, noting that the funds were discovered in an unaccompanied bag suspected of being smuggled into the country.
The anti-graft agency revealed that the interception occurred on Sunday April 27, 2025, when a clearing agent, Sale Bala, attempted to retrieve the bag.
“Upon physical inspection, Customs officers uncovered the foreign currencies concealed in bed spreads (duvets) and date packs tucked in the luggage. Further investigation led to the arrest of Bala and a second suspect, Abdullahi Tahir, who was reportedly tasked with receiving the bag after clearance.
“The money was handed over to the EFCC by Chief Superintendent of Customs, CSC Abdulahi Hashim and received on behalf of the Commission by Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE11 Aminu Bashir,” it stated.
The Commission mentioned that the suspects and the seized funds are now in its custody and will be charged to court after the conclusion of the investigations.
EFCC commended the NCS for its vigilance and reiterated the importance of inter-agency cooperation in safeguarding the nation’s economy.
It emphasised that the Commission, in collaboration with Customs and other stakeholders, is intensifying efforts to enlighten stakeholders on the legal requirements for cash movement and the consequences of non-compliance.
The anti-corruption agency also noted that it jointly organised a sensitisation program alongside the ICPC and the NCS on April 26, 2025, to educate all stakeholders about the legal requirements for the movement of cash in and out of Nigeria, as outlined in Nigerian laws and regulations.
The event witnessed a large audience, including members of the Bureau de Change community, travel agencies, airport authorities, pilgrim boards, and the Kano Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
