Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Services have intercepted $1,154,900 and SR135,900 in undeclared foreign currency at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, revealed this in a statement on Thursday, saying the seizure happened during a routine baggage check on an inbound passenger, Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi. She had arrived from Saudi Arabia on Saudi Airline Flight No. SV401.
According to Maiwada, officers found the undeclared money hidden inside packs of palm dates, locally known as dabino, during a physical search of the passenger’s luggage.
“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,” the statement said.
He added that the court had convicted the suspect and ordered the forfeiture of the undeclared money to the Federal Government, following the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.
The NCS reminded the public about the law requiring travellers to declare any cash or negotiable instruments above the approved limit when entering or leaving Nigeria.
“Non-compliance with these regulations constitutes a violation of Nigerian law and attracts severe penalties,” Maiwada stated.
Under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS vowed to continue fighting smuggling, illegal financial activities, and other border-related crimes.
“This latest seizure highlights the Service’s dedication to protecting the nation’s economic interests and ensuring compliance with financial regulations,” the statement added.
The NCS urged travellers and financial sector stakeholders to obey financial laws to avoid legal consequences.
