The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, handed over $180,300 and 53 vehicles to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) on Friday, September 6, 2024. These assets were recovered from Nigerian fraudsters for Canadian victims.
Of the recovered cash, $164,000 belongs to a victim identified as Elena Bogomas, while $16,300 is for another victim, Sandra Butler. The 53 vehicles were stolen in Canada, shipped to Nigeria, and distributed across various locations by criminal elements.
The handover ceremony, held at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, was attended by Robert Aboumitri, First Secretary and Deputy High Commission of Canada, and Nasser Salihou, Liaison Officer and Programme Manager for the RCMP.
Olukoyede praised the successful collaboration between the EFCC and RCMP, emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to combating fraud and corruption. He stated, “Today’s handover demonstrates that the Nigerian government will never tolerate financial crime. This reflects the mandate given to us by President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed to work closely with international partners like the RCMP.”
He highlighted the complex nature of transnational crimes and the importance of global collaboration among law enforcement agencies. “Financial crimes are a global issue, affecting multiple countries. Criminals operate without borders, making international cooperation essential,” Olukoyede noted.
RCMP’s Nasser Salihou expressed gratitude for the EFCC’s diligence, stating, “This is a testament to your professionalism and commitment to fighting crime. The success of this operation underscores Nigeria as a key partner in combating crimes in West Africa.”
Robert Aboumitri echoed these sentiments, noting that the RCMP established an office in Nigeria in 2021 to tackle borderless crimes. “Our partnership with the EFCC has been exceptional, and today’s results are proof of our shared commitment to fighting international crime,” he added.
