Kano, Nigeria – Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) officials intercepted over $1.1 million and SR135,900 in undeclared currency at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA). The substantial sum was discovered during a routine baggage check of Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, who arrived on a flight from Saudi Arabia.
Smuggled Cash Found in Date Packages
The undeclared currency was cleverly concealed within packages of dates. NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada highlighted that this seizure demonstrates the NCS’s dedication to enforcing financial regulations and preventing illicit financial flows across Nigeria’s borders.
Maiwada emphasized the importance of travelers adhering to Nigeria’s financial regulations. All passengers must declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved threshold. He warned, “Non-compliance with these regulations constitutes a violation of Nigerian law and attracts severe penalties.”
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) now has custody of the suspect and the seized currency. Following legal proceedings, the court convicted the defendant and ordered the forfeiture of the funds to the Federal Government. The NCS confirmed its ongoing collaboration with other agencies to strengthen border security, enforce financial laws, and safeguard Nigeria’s economy. The discovery of hidden currency raises questions, but it’s clear that officials are working to hold violators accountable.
