President Bola Tinubu has instructed Nigeria’s security agencies to launch a nationwide crackdown on cybercriminals and transnational car theft syndicates, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to stamping out organised crime.
This directive was issued to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), as part of a broader strategy to curb the influx of stolen vehicles into the country.
In a recent development, the EFCC returned 53 stolen vehicles and $180,300 to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), on behalf of two Canadian citizens who were victims of cyber fraud originating from Nigeria.
Tinubu praised the EFCC’s efforts and collaboration with international partners in securing justice for the victims.
He expressed concern about organised criminal groups using Nigeria as a hub for transnational car thefts, vowing that his administration will make the country hostile to such illegal activities.
“Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles or a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries,” Tinubu declared, while emphasizing the importance of stripping criminals of the proceeds of their unlawful activities.
The President further directed all relevant law enforcement agencies to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial systems from the infiltration of organised crime.
He stressed that all seized and confiscated assets must be preserved in accordance with existing laws and international conventions, ensuring that they benefit the state, society, and victims.
Tinubu’s strong stance comes amid heightened efforts by his administration to combat financial crimes, including cybercrime and money laundering, both locally and internationally.
He reiterated the government’s dedication to working closely with international partners to shut down criminal networks and uphold Nigeria’s financial integrity.
