Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted $1,154,900 and SR135,900 in undeclared foreign currency at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano State. NCS spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada disclosed that the seizure occurred during a routine baggage check on Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, an inbound passenger on Saudi Airlines Flight No. SV401 from Saudi Arabia.
According to Maiwada, NCS Officers discovered the undeclared currency concealed within date fruit packs, known locally as Dabino, during a physical examination. This interception aligns with the NCS's commitment to enforcing financial regulations and preventing illicit financial flows across Nigeria's borders.
The statement read: "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."
Following the investigation, the court convicted the defendant and ordered the forfeiture of the undeclared money to the Federal Government under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.
NCS emphasizes compliance with Nigeria's financial regulations, particularly the requirement to declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved threshold when traveling in or out of the country. The Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022 and the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, of 1995, provide guidelines on currency declaration. Non-compliance constitutes a violation of Nigerian law and attracts penalties.
Maiwada urged the public to adhere strictly to these requirements to avoid legal consequences.
Source: Business Day