The Nigeria Police Force has achieved a significant breakthrough in the fight against counterfeit currency, successfully arresting four dealers in Kano and Nasarawa states. This operation resulted in the recovery of counterfeit notes amounting to $3.5 million, N1.4 million, and 51,970 CFA Franc.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced a major arrest on December 8, 2024, in Gwale, Kano.
Nura Ibrahim was arrested, and an astonishing sum of counterfeit money was confiscated, amounting to N129.5 billion. The seized counterfeit currencies comprise 3,366,000 US Dollars, 51,970 CFA Francs, and 1,443,000 Naira.
Adejobi stated that the arrest resulted in the subsequent capture of accomplices, Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi.
On January 13, 2025, Force operatives arrested 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Kano, Nasarawa State, with $160,000 in counterfeit U.S. Dollar notes. The force spokesperson stated that investigations continue to uncover the extent of Barde’s involvement and identify any potential accomplices.
Adejobi added, “The Police are committed to preventing further threats to the nation’s financial system.
The Nigeria Police Force is steadfast in its commitment to fighting financial crimes and creating a secure economic environment, thereby enhancing national security for the safety of all Nigerians and residents.
“The IGP calls on all citizens to play an active role in national security by reporting suspicious activities related to counterfeit currency and financial crimes.”
Adejobi revealed that the Force has launched the Police Anti-Money Laundering Units within the Nigeria Police Force. CP Hyacinth Azuka Edozie, along with officers of the Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs), has been appointed to head these units in every State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) nationwide.
He said, “This initiative is a strategic move to strengthen the Police’s role in national security, specifically in combating financial crimes.
“It is also critical in countering the sophisticated methods used by terrorist organizations and other criminal entities to finance their activities.”
