EFCC probes two suspects over alleged $461,600 cash non-declaration at Kano Airport
EFCC Investigates Suspects for Failing to Declare Funds at Kano Airport
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into two suspects arrested for allegedly failing to declare a total of $461,600 at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The suspects, Jamilu Shuaibu Waya and Usman Namadi, were intercepted by officers from the Nigeria Customs Service, Kano/Jigawa Area Command, upon their arrival from Dubai on an Ethiopian Airlines flight (ET941) on Friday, May 8, 2026.
According to the EFCC, the suspects initially declared $130,000 and $180,000, respectively, at the currency declaration desk. However, a physical inspection by Customs officers revealed an additional $120,000 concealed by Waya, raising his total possession to $250,000. Namadi was found with an extra $31,600, bringing his total to $211,600.
The EFCC stated that the undeclared funds violate Sections 3 and 4 of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.
During the handover of the suspects to the EFCC, Deputy Comptroller U.U. Adamu, the acting Customs Area Controller, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Customs Service and the EFCC in combating financial crimes.
“I express my appreciation for the continuous partnership with the EFCC Kano Zonal Directorate in our efforts against the illegal movement of cash,” Adamu said.
Receiving the suspects, Assistant Commander of the EFCC Friday S. Ebelo assured the public of a thorough investigation.
“The EFCC will conduct an exhaustive investigation into this matter and pursue prosecution to ensure justice is served against violators of our anti-money laundering laws,” Ebelo stated.
He also commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its ongoing cooperation, noting that inter-agency collaboration is crucial in addressing financial crimes and the unlawful movement of cash across borders.
The EFCC confirmed that the suspects, along with the recovered foreign currency and other evidence, have been transferred to the Kano Zonal Directorate for further investigation and potential prosecution.
