A Ghanaian national, Ahmad Salisu, was on Monday arrested by the Nigeria Customs Service in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) for allegedly laundering over N650m.

The suspect with Passport G5347658 arrived the country from Saudi Arabia onboard Ethiopian Airlines at about 12:15 hours on July 7, 2025, was found in possession US dollars, pounds sterling, and West African Francs (CFA).

Addressing journalists on Tuesday, at a joint press conference by Comptroller Kano, Jigawa Command Dalhatu Abubakar and Zonal Director, EFCC Kano Command Zonal director Ibrahim Shazali said, “Today is another milestone achievement which is the interception of undeclared foreign currencies at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.”

Abubakar added: “The suspects named – Ahmed Salisu with a Ghanian Passport G5347658 arrived the country from Saudi Arabia onboard Ethiopian Airlines at about 1215hrs on 7 July 2025.

“This monetary exhibit and suspects, before us today, were arrested by the officers of the Service, working in close synergy with other agencies and partners within and outside the country.

“On arrival, the suspect, like other passengers, was duly reminded of his obligation to declare any foreign currencies or negotiable instruments exceeding 10,000 USD in his possession, but declined to do so.”

He therefore disclosed that “Upon search of the passenger’s baggage, the following currencies were discovered: 420,900 USD, 3,946,500 CFA Francs (XOF), 224,000 CFA Francs (XAF) and 5,825 British Pounds Sterling.

“ The total amount of interception in Naira is valued at N653,987,268.5. It is important to mention that the ever-changing dynamics of these criminals present a challenge to law enforcement. ‘

During the handover of the money to the Zonal Director, EFCC Kano Command, Ibrahim Shazali, said: “This interception is not just about the significant amount recovered; it sends a powerful, unequivocal message. “

Ahmad Sorondinki

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