The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted $1.1 million and 135,900 Saudi Riyals in undeclared foreign currency at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.
In a statement on Thursday, NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada disclosed that the cash was discovered concealed in packs of palm dates during a physical examination of a passenger’s luggage.
Passenger Convicted, Money Forfeited
The passenger, who had arrived from Saudi Arabia on Saudi Airline flight No. SV401, was arrested and subsequently convicted in court for failing to declare the foreign currencies.
The court ordered the forfeiture of the undeclared funds to the Federal Government, citing the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.
“In line with established procedures, the suspect and the seized foreign currencies have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and necessary legal action,” Maiwada stated.
Customs Warns Against Violating Financial Regulations
The NCS emphasized that this seizure underscores its commitment to enforcing financial regulations and preventing illicit financial flows across Nigeria’s borders.
Maiwada urged travelers to declare any cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved threshold when entering or leaving Nigeria.
“Non-compliance with these regulations constitutes a violation of Nigerian law and attracts severe penalties. The service, therefore, urges the public to adhere strictly to these requirements to avoid legal consequences,” he warned.
Customs Reaffirms Commitment to Border Security
The NCS, under the leadership of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, remains committed to combating smuggling, illicit financial transactions, and other transborder crimes.
“This latest seizure highlights the service’s unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s economic interests and ensuring compliance with financial regulations,” Maiwada concluded.
