Worried by the activities of transnational organised criminal groups in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has tasked security and maritime agencies to intensify efforts to combat cybercriminals and transnational car thieves operating within the country.
He urged law enforcement agencies, particularly the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), to step up their vigilance and work together to intercept these criminal networks.
The president’s directives followed the government’s move to curb organised crime networks that engage in illicit activities, particularly those targeting foreign nationals.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president bcommended the EFCC for its recent collaboration with Canadian authorities.
This partnership led to the recovery of $180,000 and 53 vehicles, which were handed over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) on behalf of two citizens the country.
The president acknowledged the significance of this cooperation and called for sustained efforts in tackling transnational crimes.
“Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries,” Tinubu said.
He emphasised that his administration will remain relentless in tackling financial crimes, cybercrime, and money laundering.
He noted that seized and confiscated assets, especially moveable property like vehicles, should be preserved for the benefit of the state, society, and victims in accordance with existing legislation and international conventions.
“Criminals must not benefit from their illicit activities,” Tinubu said, adding that Nigeria is committed to maintaining strong relationships with international partners to ensure that criminals who operate across borders are brought to justice.
