The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a sum of $193,000 in cash hidden inside a yoghurt carton at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The discovery was made by officers of the Federal Capital Territory Command, acting on credible intelligence.
In a statement on Friday, the National Public Relations Officer of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada, confirmed that the suspect, 40-year-old Kamilu Abdullahi Sarina, arrived in Nigeria onboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight 951 from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Customs Area Controller Olumide Adebisi explained that officers conducted a detailed baggage inspection, which led to the detection of the concealed funds.
“Earlier today, we received an intelligence report that proved useful. This afternoon, we discovered that one Kamilu Abdullahi Sarina had hidden a total sum of $193,000 inside a yoghurt carton,” Adebisi stated.
Violation of Anti-Money Laundering Laws
Adebisi emphasized that the undeclared cash violates Nigeria’s Anti-Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which mandate that travelers carrying more than $10,000 or its equivalent must declare it upon arrival or departure.
“The law clearly states that if a traveler possesses funds exceeding $10,000, it must be declared to Customs. Failure to do so can result in forfeiture of the money, a prison sentence of up to two years, or both,” he explained.
The Customs chief revealed that advanced scanning technology played a key role in detecting irregularities in the suspect’s luggage. The officers monitored the baggage after noticing unusual density patterns, which led to a thorough search and the eventual discovery of the cash.
Money Handed Over to EFCC for Investigation
Following the seizure, the intercepted funds were formally handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“As required by law, we are handing over the forfeited money to the EFCC for further necessary action,” Adebisi stated.
He reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to enforcing financial regulations and curbing illicit financial transactions across the country’s borders.
Strict Warnings to Travelers
Adebisi warned travelers against attempting to bypass financial regulations, emphasizing the severe legal consequences of non-compliance.
“All travelers must adhere to Nigeria’s financial regulations, particularly the requirement to declare any cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved threshold when traveling in or out of the country,” he said.
He further assured that the Customs Service will continue to work closely with the EFCC and other agencies to strengthen border security and combat financial crimes.
Travelers and stakeholders were urged to remain vigilant and comply with financial regulations to avoid legal repercussions.
