In a bold move to curb terrorism financing and strengthen national security, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has inaugurated Police Anti-Money Laundering Units across Nigeria. This initiative is aimed at preventing and detecting illicit financial activities that threaten the nation’s stability.
The units, to be led by Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) in State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs), will be coordinated by a seasoned financial expert, CP Hyacinth Azuka Edozie. The announcement was made in a statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer, Adejobi Muyiwa, which highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative in enhancing Nigeria’s security architecture.
“The establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Units underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding the nation by countering financial crimes and the complex methods used by criminal networks and terrorist organizations to fund their operations,” the statement read.
The initiative is also expected to bolster collaboration with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and improve the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies to address emerging security threats.
In a testament to its resolve, the Nigeria Police Force recently achieved significant breakthroughs in Kano and Nasarawa States.
On December 8, 2024, operatives in Gwale, Kano, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended a suspect, Nura Ibrahim, and uncovered a staggering N129,542,823,000 in counterfeit currency. The counterfeit funds included $3,366,000 in fake US dollars, 51,970 counterfeit CFA francs, and 1,443,000 counterfeit naira notes. The operation also led to the arrest of accomplices, Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi.
In a separate operation on January 13, 2025, 53-year-old Ephraim Barde was arrested in New Karu, Nasarawa State, with counterfeit US dollars totaling $160,000. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of his activities and possible collaborators.
Inspector General Egbetokun reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s dedication to combating financial crimes and fostering a secure economic environment for all Nigerians and residents. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to counterfeit currency or financial crimes to the authorities.
“This initiative is a critical step towards ensuring a secure economic environment and promoting national security for the safety of all,” the IGP stated.
With the establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Units, the Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling financial crimes and enhancing national stability.
Comments