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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has successfully extradited Abubakar Aboki Muhammed, a Nigerian fugitive, from the United Arab Emirates. Muhammed, who was subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice, arrived back in Nigeria on Friday, May 23, 2025, to face charges of obtaining money by false pretense, forgery, and money laundering in a multi-million dollar fraud case.
The extradition marks a crucial step in a case that began in July 2023 when an Abuja-based international businessman was reportedly being defrauded by Muhammed.
According to a press release by the Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejombi, “Our investigation revealed that Mr. Muhammed misrepresented himself as a shipping agent,” stated Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
“He secured a contract to facilitate payments and freight ten high-end vehicles, valued at $307,500.00, from the UAE to Nigeria.”
The police further explained that, Muhammed allegedly built trust with the complainant before fraudulently receiving the full payment. The funds were reportedly transferred through a third-party account belonging to Anas Usaini, a resident of Kano, and subsequently funneled into money laundering activities in Dubai.
“Once the payment was secured, Mr. Muhammed provided a forged bill of lading for the vehicles and then became uncontactable,” ACP Adejobi explained.
Muhammed’s apprehension in Dubai on April 15, 2025, was the culmination of extensive collaborative efforts. He will now face prosecution at the Federal High Court in Nigeria.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, expressed profound gratitude for the international cooperation that led to this successful extradition.
“The Nigeria Police Force recognises the invaluable assistance of the Dubai Police, INTERPOL NCB Abu Dhabi, and the Nigerian Consulate General in Dubai.
“We will continue to collaborate with international law enforcement agencies to pursue and bring to justice individuals who seek to exploit and defraud our citizens through cross-border criminal activities.”
This extradition underscores the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to combating complex financial crimes and ensuring that justice is served, regardless of borders.