EFCC Investigates Man for Smuggling $578,000 at Lagos Airport
The EFCC has launched an investigation into Okorie Sunday for smuggling $578,000 into Nigeria, which he falsely declared. Customs officials discovered additional undeclared funds upon inspection. This incident underscores the significance of compliance with currency declaration laws, as the suspect faces charges following the investigation’s conclusion.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated an investigation into Okorie Sunday, who was apprehended at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, possessing $578,000. EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, announced on Saturday that the suspect would be prosecuted following the investigation’s completion.
The Area Comptroller of Customs, Effiong Harrison, reported that the suspect falsely declared $279,000 upon his arrival from Johannesburg, South Africa. However, customs inspections revealed an additional $299,000 concealed in separate packages, leading to his arrest for failing to declare the total amount.
In addition to the undeclared cash, further investigation uncovered that Sunday had hidden €100 and a counterfeit $250 note, amplifying the violation of currency declaration laws. Harrison highlighted that this breach contravenes the Money Laundering Prohibition Act of 2011, which mandates the declaration of currency sums exceeding $10,000.
Harrison assured that the discovered $578,000 would be transferred to the EFCC for extensive inquiry. EFCC’s Acting Zonal Director in Lagos, Ahmed Ghali, acknowledged the Customs’ cooperation. Ghali underscored the significance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling such financial irregularities.
Ghali encouraged the public to declare any currency over $10,000 when entering or leaving Nigeria, aligning with the nation’s anti-money laundering policies. He cautioned citizens against false declarations, asserting that the law would inevitably apprehend those undermining financial transparency. Furthermore, he emphasized that actions undermining the economy would not be tolerated, as they heighten risks associated with money laundering and economic instability.
The ongoing investigation by the EFCC into Okorie Sunday’s case highlights the critical nature of adhering to currency declaration laws in Nigeria. With a total of $578,000 found, the case underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in curbing financial crimes. Public awareness regarding money laundering regulations is paramount to prevent such incidents that threaten economic stability and the country’s reputation.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
