Customs officers intercepted undeclared foreign currency near Seme border during a night patrol.
The $20,000 and 110,000 CFA Francs were handed to EFCC for further investigation.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit Zone A, has transferred $20,000 and 110,000 West African CFA Francs both undeclared to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the Unit’s Public Relations Officer, Hussaini Abdullahi, described the seizure as a major step in efforts to stop illegal financial movements across Nigerian borders.
The interception occurred late Sunday night, around 11:45 p.m., during a routine patrol along Babapupa bush paths near the Seme border.
According to the Customs Area Controller, Mohammed Shuaibu, officers flagged down a suspicious Nissan Almera believed to be smuggled. However, the driver quickly abandoned the vehicle and fled into the nearby bushes upon sighting the patrol team.
An inspection of the vehicle revealed hidden cash $20,000 and 110,000 CFA Francs altogether worth about ₦30.8 million. Shuaibu said this discovery proves the dedication of Customs officers to fighting illegal financial activities and maintaining control at Nigeria’s borders.
“This interception is part of our broader efforts to stop smuggling and uphold financial laws. It also reflects our resolve to protect Nigeria’s economy,” he said.
Shuaibu explained that the seizure complies with the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, both of which require travelers to declare any amount above $10,000 or its equivalent at points of entry and exit.
He also mentioned that Customs has intensified education campaigns to inform travelers and stakeholders about the importance of declaring large sums of money at the border. He urged the public to take advantage of these initiatives to avoid penalties and protect their finances.
Commending his officers, Shuaibu noted that the NCS remains committed to working with other agencies. He confirmed that the seized funds have been handed over to the EFCC for necessary action.
Receiving the money, EFCC Assistant Director Shehu Mohammed, who stood in for the Zonal Coordinator, praised the Customs team for their swift response.
“This seizure shows the strong collaboration between our agencies. The EFCC will carry out full investigations to uncover those behind this and determine the next legal steps,” he said.
