The Nigeria Customs Service seized $193,000 hidden in a yoghurt carton at the Abuja airport from Kamilu Sarina, who failed to declare the funds upon entry from Jeddah. The incident underscores the serious repercussions of violating currency declaration laws, transferring the case to the EFCC for further action.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized $193,000 in undeclared foreign currency concealed within a yoghurt carton at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. This interception followed a targeted baggage inspection driven by reliable intelligence. The individual involved, Kamilu Sarina, a 40-year-old traveler, arrived from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia onboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 951.
According to Olumide Adebisi, the area controller for the Federal Capital Territory Command, the operation was prompted by a report indicating suspicious activity. The funds were discovered when customs officials detected an unusual density during baggage scans, prompting further inspection of Sarina’s luggage, where the money was ultimately uncovered.
Sarina had not declared the substantial amount of currency, violating the Anti-Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which mandate the declaration of any amount exceeding $10,000. Adebisi stressed the legal implications of such non-compliance, which include potential forfeiture, a prison sentence of up to two years, or both.
Following the seizure, the currency has been transferred to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution. Adebisi reiterated the importance of adhering to financial regulations and warned travelers to comply with currency declaration requirements to avoid severe penalties. He also commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for enhancing operational efficiency in the service.
In summary, the Nigeria Customs Service successfully intercepted $193,000 concealed in a yoghurt carton, emphasizing the significance of adhering to currency declaration laws. The actions taken underline the ongoing commitment to enforcing financial regulations and highlight the severe consequences of non-compliance. The seized funds will be handed over to the EFCC for further investigation, showcasing rigorous measures against money laundering and financial irregularities.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
