The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized undeclared foreign currency amounting to $1,154,900 and SR135,900 at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in Kano State.
NCS spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada disclosed in a statement on Thursday that the interception happened during a routine baggage inspection. The suspect, Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, arrived aboard Saudi Airline Flight No. SV401 from Saudi Arabia.
Upon inspecting her luggage, customs officers found the hidden cash concealed within packs of palm-date fruits, commonly known as Dabino.
“In line with established procedures, the suspect and the seized foreign currency have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and necessary legal action,” the statement read.
Following legal proceedings, the court convicted the suspect and ruled that the undeclared funds be forfeited to the Federal Government under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.
“The Service reiterates that all travellers must comply with Nigeria’s financial regulations, particularly the legal requirement to declare any cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved threshold when travelling in or out of the country,” Maiwada emphasized.
He warned that failing to comply with financial regulations could lead to severe penalties, as outlined in the Money Laundering Act of 2022 and the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act of 1995.
Under the leadership of Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS remains steadfast in its efforts to combat smuggling, illicit financial transactions, and border-related crimes.
“This latest seizure highlights the Service’s unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s economic interests and ensuring compliance with financial regulations,” the statement added.
The NCS reaffirmed its collaboration with relevant agencies to strengthen border security, enforce financial laws, and safeguard Nigeria’s economy. Travellers and financial stakeholders are urged to strictly adhere to financial regulations to avoid legal repercussions.
