…the Customs Service transferred the suspects along with the seized undeclared cash to the EFCC for further investigation.
Kano, Nigeria – The iNews Times reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a formal investigation following the arrest of one Ahmad Salisu, who was intercepted with large sums of undeclared foreign currency at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The arrest, made by officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Monday, July 7, 2025, led to the recovery of $420,900, £5,825, and CFA 4,170,500, all hidden in Salisu’s luggage. The cash was reportedly concealed in a polythene bag wrapped in clothing materials.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the incident on Tuesday, July 8, stating that Salisu claimed he was acting on behalf of his brother, Auwal Ahmad, who is currently in Saudi Arabia.
The money was allegedly intended for two individuals–Yusuf Adamu and Abdulhamid Rabiu–who were arrested at the airport upon arrival to collect the funds.
“Following preliminary questioning and proper documentation, the Customs Service transferred the three suspects along with the seized currencies to the EFCC for further investigation and prosecution,” Oyewale said.
At the handover event held at the NCS Kano/Jigawa Area Command, the Kano Zonal Director of the EFCC, Commander Ibrahim Shazali, reiterated the commitment of both agencies to tackling illicit financial flows and related economic crimes.
“The EFCC and the Nigerian Customs Service, working in concert, have zero tolerance for illegal cash smuggling. Our surveillance is active, our intelligence is sharp, and our resolve to apprehend offenders is unwavering,” Shazali stated.
He further emphasized that attempts to bypass Nigeria’s financial regulations and border controls would be met with full legal consequences.
Shazali also issued a public call to aviation and financial industry stakeholders to remain alert and proactive in reporting suspicious activity involving large cash movements.
“We urge the public, particularly stakeholders within the aviation sector and financial institutions, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement of large volumes of cash. Protecting the integrity of our economy is a collective responsibility,” he added.
According to the EFCC, the suspects are expected to be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
