EFCC Probes Foreign Currencies Stack Concealed in Bedspread at Aminu Kano Airport

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced investigation into the seizure of a large sum of foreign currencies, including $86,500, 305,150 Saudi Riyals, and €200, which were concealed in a bedspread at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.

The currencies were discovered in an unaccompanied bag that was suspected to have been smuggled into the country.

According to the EFCC, the bag was intercepted on Sunday, April 27, 2025, when a clearing agent attempted to retrieve it. Upon physical inspection, Customs officers found the foreign currencies hidden in bed spreads (duvets) and date packs tucked in the luggage.

The agency stated that further investigation led to the arrest of two suspects, Bala and Abdullahi Tahir, who were allegedly involved in the smuggling operation.

The EFCC said that the suspects and the seized funds are currently in the custody of the agency and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.

The agency is working to unravel the circumstances surrounding the smuggling of the large sum of foreign currencies and to identify any other individuals or groups involved in the operation.

The seizure of the foreign currencies is a significant breakthrough in the EFCC’s efforts to combat money laundering and other financial crimes in the country. The agency has been working closely with other law enforcement agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, to identify and disrupt smuggling operations and to bring perpetrators to justice.

The EFCC’s investigation into the seized foreign currencies is ongoing, and the agency is urging anyone with information about the smuggling operation to come forward. The agency is committed to protecting the country’s financial system and to ensuring that those who engage in financial crimes are held accountable.