Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted $1.154 million and 135,900 Saudi Riyals. This undeclared currency was collected at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport. The announcement regarding this was made in a statement issued by the Customs National Public Relations Officer – Abdullahi Maiwada.
He said that the seizure was done recently during a routine baggage check on an inbound passenger, “Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, who arrived on Saudi Airline Flight No. SV401 from Saudi Arabia.”
Maiwada explained that during the physical examination of the passenger’s luggage conducted by customs officers, “the undeclared currency was discovered and concealed within palm-date fruit packs locally referred to as Dabino.”
The officer also said that the interception aligns with the NCS’s commitment to enforcing financial regulations and preventing illicit financial flows across Nigeria’s borders.
The Customs spokesperson mentioned that in line with established procedures, the suspect and the seized foreign currency have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for further investigation and necessary legal action.
He mentioned that the court has convicted the defendant as charged and ordered the forfeiture of the undeclared money to the Federal Government in line with the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.
Maiwada reiterated that all travelers must comply with financial regulations of Nigeria, particularly the legal requirement to declare any cash or negotiable instruments which exceeds the approved threshold when traveling in or out of the country.
He maintained the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022 and the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous provisions) Act of 1995 that provides clear guidelines on currency declaration.
According to him, the non-compliance with these regulations constitutes a violation of Nigerian Law and attracts severe penalties. He also urged the public to strictly adhere to the requirements that are needed to avoid legal consequences.
Officer Maiwada pointed out that under the current NCS administration led by the CGC – Adewale Adeniyi, the service remains resolute in its enforcement efforts to combat smuggling, illicit financial transactions and other trans-border crimes.
As per his statement, “The latest seizure highlights the service’s unwavering dedication to protect the economic interests of the nation and ensures compliance with financial regulations.”
Maiwada stressed that the service would continue to collaborate with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to strengthen the border security, enhance compliance with financial laws and safeguard the economy of Nigeria.
He advised the travelers and stakeholders in the financial sector to remain vigilant and always adhere to lawful financial practices.