…as police makes landmark arrests in kano, nasarawa
The Inspector-General of Police has launched Police Anti-Money Laundering Units to tackle financial crimes and economic sabotage. This move aims to strengthen the country’s efforts in combating money laundering and other financial offenses, ensuring a safer and more stable financial system for all Nigerians.
A statement made available by the Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi states that to lead the unit in all Sate Criminal Investigation Department (SCIDs) across the country, the IGP has appointed a renowned financial expert, CP Hyacinth Azuka Edozie with officers of the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs).
This initiative marks a significant step forward in bolstering the Police’s national security role, with a keen focus on combating financial crimes. By establishing specialized units, the Police aim to stay ahead of the complex financial tactics employed by terrorist organizations and other criminal groups to fund their illicit activities.
“The establishment underscores the Force’s commitment to safeguarding national security by preventing and detecting illicit financial activities that could undermine the country’s stability. It also enhances the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies, especially the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in furtherance of its global oversight functions, to address various security threats” he said.
In a significant crackdown on financial crimes, the Police have made major arrests in Kano and Nasarawa States. On December 8, 2024, operatives in Gwale, Kano, seized a massive haul of counterfeit currency worth N129,542,823,000 after apprehending Nura Ibrahim based on credible intelligence. The counterfeit currencies included 3,366,000 US Dollars, 51,970 CFA Francs, and 1,443,000 Naira.
The arrest of Nura Ibrahim led to the capture of his accomplices, Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi. Furthermore, in a separate operation on January 13, 2025, the Police arrested 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in Nasarawa State with $160,000 in counterfeit US dollars. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of Barde’s involvement and identify potential accomplices.
In another breakthrough, the Police apprehended 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Karu, Nasarawa State, on January 13, 2025, with a substantial sum of $160,000 in counterfeit US dollar notes. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover the extent of Barde’s involvement and identify potential collaborators. The Police remain vigilant in their efforts to safeguard the nation’s financial system from future threats.
The Nigeria Police Force is firmly committed to tackling financial crimes and ensuring a secure economic environment, ultimately promoting national security and safety for all Nigerians and residents. A significant milestone in this endeavor is the establishment of specialized Anti-Money Laundering Units, which will play a crucial role in combating financial crimes.
The Inspector-General of Police urges all citizens to join forces in safeguarding national security by reporting any suspicious activities linked to counterfeit currency and financial crimes.
