Nigeria Customs Intercepts Undeclared $1.1m, SR135,900 Concealed in Fruit Packs at Kano Airport
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the interception of undeclared foreign currencies, US $1,154,900 and 135,900 Saudi Riyals concealed in palm-date fruit packs at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).
This was made known in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada on Thursday.
Maiwada revealed that the seizure was made recently during a routine baggage check on an inbound passenger, Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, who arrived on Saudi Airline Flight No. SV401 from Saudi Arabia.
“During the physical examination of the passenger’s luggage conducted by NCS Officers, the undeclared currency was discovered concealed within palm-date fruit packs locally referred to as Dabino. This interception aligns with the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to enforcing financial regulations and preventing illicit financial flows across Nigeria’s borders.
“In line with established procedures, the suspect and the seized foreign currency have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and necessary legal action. Subsequently, the court convicted the defendant as charged and ordered the forfeiture of the undeclared money to the Federal Government in line with the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022,” he stated.
The Service emphasised that all travellers must comply with Nigeria’s financial regulations, particularly the legal requirement to declare any cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved threshold when travelling in or out of the country.
The spokeperson cited the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022 and the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1995, which provide clear guidelines on currency declaration.
“Non-compliance with these regulations constitutes a violation of Nigerian law and attracts severe penalties,” he warned and urged the public to adhere strictly to these requirements to avoid legal consequences.
Maiwada reiterated that the NCS under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi remains resolute in its enforcement efforts to combat smuggling, illicit financial transactions, and other trans-border crimes.
He noted that the latest seizure highlights the Service’s unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s economic interests and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
Customs assured that it will continue to collaborate with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to strengthen border security, enhance compliance with financial laws, and safeguard Nigeria’s economy.
It also advised travellers and stakeholders in the financial sector to remain vigilant and always adhere to lawful financial practices.
