President Bola Tinubu has directed a comprehensive crackdown on cybercriminals and transnational car theft syndicates operating within Nigeria. He ordered security agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), to intensify efforts to curtail the activities of individuals involved in trafficking stolen vehicles and engaging in cyber fraud.
The President emphasized that depriving criminals of the proceeds of their illegal activities remains one of the most powerful tools available to law enforcement. He further stressed the importance of maintaining Nigeria’s global reputation by not allowing it to become a haven for stolen goods or illicit wealth.
In a commendation of recent efforts, President Tinubu praised the EFCC for returning $180,300 and 53 stolen vehicles to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The assets were returned to two Canadian citizens who had fallen victim to cybercrimes perpetrated by Nigerian nationals. The recovery is a significant milestone in international cooperation between Nigeria and Canada.
Expressing concern over the involvement of organized crime groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, President Tinubu urged relevant authorities, especially anti-corruption agencies, to remain vigilant in protecting the nation’s economic and financial integrity. He reiterated the need to preserve the value of seized assets for the benefit of the state, society, and victims in accordance with existing laws and international agreements.
“Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles or a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries,” President Tinubu firmly stated, affirming his administration’s commitment to addressing money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial offenses.
