The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into the seizure of $86,500, 305,150 Saudi Riyals, and 200 Euros at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The foreign currencies were found in an unaccompanied bag, which was suspected to have been smuggled into the country. The bag was intercepted on Sunday, April 27, 2025, after a clearing agent, Sale Bala, attempted to retrieve it.
“Upon physical inspection, the Nigerian Customs officers uncovered the foreign currencies concealed in bed spreads (duvets) and date packs tucked in the luggage,” said the EFCC.
The EFCC in a statement on Monday said following this discovery, Bala was arrested, along with Abdullahi Tahir, a second suspect allegedly assigned to receive the bag after clearance.
The seized funds were 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.
The suspects and the confiscated funds are currently in the custody of the EFCC, and both will be charged in court once investigations are concluded.
The EFCC commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation in protecting the nation’s economy.
In addition, the Commission, in collaboration with Customs and other stake- holders, is stepping up efforts to educate the public about the legal requirements for cash movement and the consequences of noncompliance.
On April 26, 2025, the EFCC, alongside the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigeria Customs Service, held a sensitisation programme to inform stakeholders about the legalities of cash movement in and out of Nigeria.
The event attracted a large audience, including representatives from the bureau de change community, travel agencies, airport authorities, pilgrim boards, and the Kano Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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