The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lagos Zonal Directorate 1, has launched an investigation into the sums of $20,000 and CFA110,000 intercepted by officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at Seme Border, in the Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The seizure was made during a patrol on Sunday, 13 July 2025, along the Babapupa bush paths near the border. Customs operatives intercepted a Nissan Almera suspected to be a smuggled vehicle. The driver abandoned the car and fled into the surrounding bush upon sighting the patrol team.
Speaking at the official handover of the recovered currencies at the Zone A Command, Ikeja, Comptroller M. S. Shuaibu described the operation as a major stride in curbing the movement of illicit funds across Nigeria’s borders.
“The examination of the vehicle led to the discovery of $20,000 and CFA110,000. This interception reflects our continued determination to disrupt the flow of illicit funds and uphold the integrity of our national economy,” Shuaibu stated.
He explained that the arrest aligns with the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which require mandatory declaration of any currency exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent at Nigerian borders.
Commending his officers for their vigilance and professionalism, Shuaibu reiterated the agency’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration. He said the recovered currencies were being handed over to the EFCC for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Recognising the EFCC’s key role in tackling money laundering, terrorism financing, and related financial crimes, Shuaibu conveyed the appreciation of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for the EFCC’s continued partnership.
Receiving the seized funds, S. M. Ala, Head of Investigations at the EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 1, assured the Customs that a comprehensive forensic investigation would be carried out.
“We will ensure that due process is followed. This handover is a testament to what can be achieved when agencies work together to protect the nation from illicit financial flows,” Ala said.
He also praised the NCS Zone A Command for its vigilance, describing their efforts as crucial in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and deterring financial crimes.