Nigeria Customs Service Intercepts $193,000 Concealed in Yoghurt Carton

The Nigeria Customs Service seized $193,000 in undeclared currency concealed in a yoghurt carton at Abuja’s airport. The suspect, Kamilu Sarina, did not declare the funds as required by law. The case is now in the hands of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for further investigation.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully intercepted $193,000 in undeclared foreign currency hidden within a yoghurt carton at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. This operation was conducted following credible intelligence that triggered a targeted baggage inspection on Thursday. The suspect, Kamilu Sarina, a 40-year-old passenger on Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 951 from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, failed to declare the funds upon entry into Nigeria.

According to Comptroller Olumide Adebisi of the Federal Capital Territory Command, the non-declaration is in violation of both the Anti-Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which mandates that any individual possessing over $10,000 must declare the amount at customs. Mr. Adebisi emphasized that failure to comply could lead to the forfeiture of the money and a possible prison sentence.

The concealment was detected during a routine baggage scan, which revealed an unusual density in Sarina’s luggage. Upon close scrutiny, customs officials found the undeclared currency cleverly disguised within the yoghurt carton. Following this seizure, the funds have been forwarded to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for appropriate investigations and actions.

Mr. Adebisi reinforced the importance of adherence to financial regulations that govern currency declarations, cautioning that travelers must declare any cash exceeding the legal threshold when entering or exiting Nigeria. He acknowledged the efforts of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, in creating an efficient operational environment. Non-compliance with these regulations does not only contravene Nigerian law but also invites severe penalties.

In conclusion, the recent seizure of $193,000 by the Nigeria Customs Service underscores the importance of complying with financial regulations. Travelers are reminded that failing to declare large sums of currency can lead to significant legal repercussions. The NCS remains committed to enforcing these laws to prevent money laundering and financial crimes.

Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com