The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a staggering $193,000 in undeclared foreign currency, cleverly concealed inside a yogurt carton at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The seizure, which took place on Thursday, March 20, 2025, was the result of intelligence-driven surveillance and meticulous baggage inspection.
Passenger Caught Concealing Undeclared Cash
Speaking at the airport’s International Wing, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Olumide Adebisi, revealed that the suspect, Kamilu Abdullahi Sarina (40 years old), arrived in Nigeria on Ethiopian Airlines Flight No. 951 from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
“Early this morning, we received credible intelligence about a potential attempt to smuggle foreign currency. Upon arrival, our officers subjected Mr. Kamilu Abdullahi Sarina’s luggage to thorough scrutiny, leading to the shocking discovery of $193,000 hidden inside a yogurt carton,” Comptroller Adebisi disclosed.
Violation of Financial Regulations
The undeclared cash contravenes the Anti-Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which mandate that any traveller carrying funds exceeding $10,000 must declare it to Customs authorities upon entry or departure.
“The law is clear—any traveller with cash or negotiable instruments above $10,000 must declare it to Customs. Failure to do so constitutes an offence punishable by forfeiture of funds, imprisonment of up to two years, or both,” Comptroller Adebisi emphasized.
Advanced Scanning Technology Exposes Concealment
Providing details on how Customs officers detected the smuggled money, Comptroller Adebisi explained that advanced scanning technology played a crucial role.
“The scanner flagged an unusual density in the suspect’s baggage. Initially, we allowed him to proceed but maintained close monitoring. Further physical inspection confirmed our suspicions, revealing the concealed cash inside the yogurt carton,” he narrated.
EFCC Takes Over Investigation
Following the interception, the Nigeria Customs Service formally handed over the seized $193,000 to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and legal action.
“As mandated by law, the intercepted funds have been handed over to the EFCC for necessary action,” Adebisi confirmed.
Strict Warning Against Financial Crimes
Reiterating the Customs Service’s commitment to financial regulation enforcement and curbing illicit financial flows, Adebisi warned travellers against attempting to smuggle undeclared funds.
“Nigeria’s financial laws are strict on currency declarations. The Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022 and the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act of 1995 clearly outline the legal framework. Violators will face serious consequences,” he cautioned.
Enhanced Collaboration in Border Security
The Customs Controller assured that the FCT Command would continue working closely with law enforcement agencies, particularly the EFCC, to strengthen border security and tackle financial crimes.
He also commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for his leadership and efforts in enhancing operational efficiency within the service.
Compliance Is Key
Travellers and stakeholders are urged to adhere strictly to financial laws and avoid illicit activities that could lead to severe legal repercussions.
“This seizure is a clear warning—any attempt to bypass financial regulations will not go undetected. The Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in its duty to safeguard the nation’s financial integrity,” Adebisi concluded.
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