Customs Intercepts N2.28bn from Dubai-bound Austrian at Lagos Airport
Customs Intercepts N2.28bn from Dubai-bound Austrian at Lagos Airport
Officers from the Nigeria Customs Service at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Command in Lagos successfully intercepted an Austrian national attempting to smuggle undeclared foreign currency valued at approximately N2.28 billion.
The suspect, identified as Mr. Kavlak Onal, was apprehended by the Command’s Anti-Money Laundering Unit on Saturday at Departure Terminal 2. At the time of his arrest, he was prepared to board an Emirates Airlines flight destined for Dubai.
The discovery occurred after the suspect was questioned by Customs officials regarding his possessions.
Although Mr. Onal reportedly claimed that he had no currency to declare, a physical inspection of his traveling bag revealed a significant cache of foreign bills. Specifically, officers recovered €651,505 and $800,575, which had been concealed within his luggage in an attempt to bypass standard financial reporting protocols.
Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Chidi Nwokorie, clarified that while it is not illegal for travelers to carry amounts exceeding $10,000, the law strictly mandates a formal declaration of such funds.
By failing to disclose the cash, the suspect violated the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act and the Nigeria Customs Service Act. Consequently, the foreign currency, the suspect, and his international passport were all seized as part of the enforcement action.
To ensure a thorough legal follow-up, the Nigeria Customs Service has formally handed the suspect and the recovered funds over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution.
Comptroller Nwokorie emphasized that this operation reflects the government’s dedication to blocking illicit financial flows. He further urged the public to adhere to honest declaration practices at airport desks to avoid the total forfeiture of their assets and potential jail time.
