President Bola Tinubu has directed security and law enforcement agencies to intensify their efforts in combating cybercriminals and transnational car thieves operating in Nigeria. This directive reflects the government’s commitment to dismantling organized crime networks engaged in illicit activities, particularly those targeting foreign nationals.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its recent collaboration with Canadian authorities, which resulted in the recovery of $180,000 and 53 vehicles.
These assets were handed over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) on behalf of two Canadian citizens. The President highlighted the importance of such cooperation and urged ongoing efforts to combat transnational crimes.
“Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles or a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries,” Tinubu declared. He reiterated his administration’s relentless stance against financial crimes, cybercrime, and money laundering, emphasizing that depriving criminals of their illegal proceeds is the most effective way to weaken organized crime.
Concerned about the involvement of international criminal groups in the export of stolen vehicles into Nigeria, Tinubu called on law enforcement agencies including the EFCC, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to enhance their vigilance and collaborate to intercept these criminal networks.
He also emphasized that seized and confiscated assets, particularly movable property like vehicles, should be preserved for the benefit of the state, society, and victims, in accordance with existing legislation and international conventions. “Criminals must not benefit from their illicit activities,” he asserted, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining strong international partnerships to ensure that cross-border criminals face justice.
