, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, Ikeja, has intercepted a large sum of undeclared foreign currencies){kind=link}
In a decisive move against cross-border financial crimes, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, Ikeja, has intercepted a large sum of undeclared foreign currencies concealed within a suspected smuggled vehicle.
The interception involved $20,000 and 110,000 West African CFA Francs hidden inside a Nissan Almera, which was seized by the Customs patrol team on routine surveillance.
The operation took place on Sunday, July 13, 2025, around 11:45 p.m., along the Babapupa bush paths near the Seme border — a well-known route for smugglers and other illegal activities.
Comptroller of the Unit, Mohammed Shuaibu, revealed these details on Wednesday during a formal handover of the seized funds to officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Unit’s headquarters in Lagos.
He narrated that the suspect, upon sighting the Customs patrol team, immediately abandoned the vehicle and fled into the nearby forest to evade capture.
Upon inspecting the vehicle, Customs officers uncovered the concealed foreign currencies, which when converted, amounted to an estimated value of ₦30,861,651.00 (Thirty Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty-One Thousand, Six Hundred and Fifty-One Naira).
Shuaibu, while addressing officials of the EFCC, Customs personnel, and media representatives from the NCBN, highlighted that the seizure reflects the unyielding determination of his officers to protect the national economy.
He stated, “This seizure is evidence of our continued efforts to combat smuggling, intercept illicit financial flows, and ensure that the Nigerian economy is safeguarded from those who seek to undermine it through criminal means.”
He further emphasised that the seizure is in compliance with the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, as well as the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, both of which require travellers to declare any sum above $10,000 or its equivalent when crossing Nigerian borders.
In addition to enforcement actions, Shuaibu reiterated the Service’s commitment to public enlightenment on financial regulations.
“We have strengthened our sensitisation campaigns to educate stakeholders and the public on the legal requirements for currency declaration at borders. Compliance will not only safeguard individuals but also help in protecting the country’s financial system,” he advised.
Following due protocol, the seized funds were officially handed over to the EFCC for further investigation and possible prosecution of the culprits involved in the illegal transaction.
Receiving the cash on behalf of the EFCC Zonal Directorate 1, Assistant Director Shehu Mohammed applauded the Customs Service for its vigilance and efficiency.
He underscored the significance of collaboration between security agencies in Nigeria, noting, “This successful interception and handover highlight the effective synergy between the Nigeria Customs Service and the EFCC. Our agency will conduct a thorough investigation to trace the origin of these funds and prosecute those responsible in accordance with the law.”
Comptroller Shuaibu concluded by commending his officers for their dedication and alertness, assuring that the FOU Zone ‘A’ remains unwavering in its mission to stamp out smuggling and protect Nigeria’s economic interests through sustained border surveillance and enforcement.