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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is investigating one Duru Damian, who was apprehended at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, over failure to declare $59,000 in cash before boarding an international flight.
Damian, who was scheduled to travel to Dubai aboard Emirates Airline, was intercepted by operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) during a routine check at the Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism Currency Declaration Desk on Monday, August 11.
According to EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the suspect initially declared only $10,000. However, a subsequent search by Customs officers uncovered an additional $49,000, raising the total amount in his possession to $59,000.
While handing over the suspect to the EFCC on Tuesday, the Customs Area Comptroller at the airport, E. I. Harrison reiterated the agency’s commitment to enforcing currency declaration laws.
“We make regular announcements and have electronic signage reminding travellers to declare their currencies,” Harrison said.
“Despite our constant sensitisation, some individuals still choose to flout the regulations.”
Speaking at the handover event, Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, ACE I Ahmed Ghali, assured the public of the agency’s readiness to prosecute offenders.
“Our duty is to ensure that those who violate financial laws are held accountable,” Ghali said.
“No one is above the law, and we will continue to pursue anyone who attempts to circumvent it.”
Damian is currently in EFCC custody as investigations continue.