The Kano Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has commenced an investigation into two suspects, Jamilu Shuaibu Waya and Usman Namadi, over the alleged non-declaration of a total of $461,600 at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The suspects were apprehended on Friday, May 8, 2026, after arriving from Dubai aboard Ethiopian Airline flight ET941. According to the commission, the duo initially declared $130,000 and $180,000 respectively at the currency declaration desk operated by the Nigeria Customs Service, Kano/Jigawa Area Command.
However, a subsequent physical examination conducted by Customs officers reportedly uncovered an additional undeclared $120,000 on the first suspect, bringing the total in his possession to $250,000, while the second suspect was found with an extra $31,600, raising his total to $211,600.
The undeclared funds are said to contravene Sections 3 and 4 of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Speaking during the handover of the suspects to the EFCC, Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller UU Adamu, commended the anti-graft agency for its sustained collaboration with the Customs Service in tackling financial crimes and the illicit movement of cash across borders.
“Let me express appreciation for the continuous collaboration with the EFCC Kano Zonal Directorate for their support in realizing our goal while combating the illegal movement of cash,” Adamu said.
Receiving the suspects on behalf of the commission, the Kano Zonal Director of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Friday S. Ebelo, assured the Nigeria Customs Service that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
“The EFCC will conduct a thorough and uncompromising investigation into this matter. We will prosecute the case with the utmost diligence to ensure that violators of our anti-money laundering laws face the full weight of justice,” Ebelo stated.
He also praised the long-standing cooperation between both agencies, noting that inter-agency collaboration remains vital in combating financial crimes and illegal cash movements.
Following the formal handover, the suspects, alongside the recovered funds and other exhibits, were taken to the EFCC Kano Zonal Directorate for further investigation and possible prosecution.
