The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command, has arrested a passenger, Mr. Agudosi Christopher, for false currency declaration. The arrest, which took place on December 10, 2024, was conducted by the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Unit under the leadership of the new Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller EJ Harrison, just four days into his tenure.
The suspect, scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom, was intercepted at the AML desk in Terminal 2. He initially declared carrying £7,000. However, during a thorough examination, additional undeclared sums of £8,020 and $704 were discovered in his possession.
In line with the NCS’s policy of collaboration, Comptroller Harrison handed over the suspect and the undeclared currency to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on December 11, 2024, for further investigation.
During the handover, the CAC reiterated the importance of inter-agency collaboration in combating financial crimes and ensuring strict compliance with the law. He called on the EFCC to consider establishing an office closer to the airport to expedite responses to such incidents.
Harrison also warned against any form of compromise by officers and urged the public to adhere to legal requirements, especially during the busy travel season, to avoid penalties.
The Comptroller reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the NCS’s mandate and strengthening synergy with sister agencies to safeguard the nation’s economy.
