In a strategic move to strengthen police’s role in national security, specifically in combating financial crimes, the Inspector-General of Police, Dr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has established the Police Anti-Money Laundering Units of the Nigeria Police Force.
Appointed to lead the units in all State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs) across the country is a renowned financial expert, CP Hyacinth Azuka Edozie, with officers in the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) working with him.
The Force Public Relations Officer , ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Wednesday, January 15, said that apart from strengthening police’s role in national security, the initiative is also critical in countering the sophisticated methods used by terrorist organizations and other criminal entities to finance their activities.
“The establishment underscores the Force’s commitment to safeguarding national security by preventing and detecting illicit financial activities that could undermine the country’s stability.
“It also enhances the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies, especially the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in furtherance of its global oversight functions, to address various security threats,” the Force spokesman stated.
He said that the police recently made significant arrests in Kano and Nasarawa states as a testament to the zeal to curb financial crimes and boost national security.
According to him, on December 8, 2024, at Gwale, Kano, operatives, while acting on credible intelligence, apprehended one Nura Ibrahim and discovered counterfeit currency.
Recovered from him was the sum of N129,542,823,000 in counterfeit currencies, with a breakdown of 3,366,000 in counterfeit US Dollars, 51,970 in counterfeit CFA, and N1.443 million in counterfeit Naira.
Ibrahim’s capture led to further arrests of accomplices, identified as Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi.
The FPRO spoke further: “Similarly, on January 13, 2025, the Force arrested 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Karu, Nasarawa State, with counterfeit U.S. dollar notes totalling $160,000.
“Following the arrest, further investigations are underway to determine the full scope of Barde’s involvement and identify any accomplices.
“The Police are committed to preventing further threats to the nation’s financial system.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its efforts to combat financial crimes and ensure a secure economic environment with a view to promoting national security for the safety of all Nigerians and residents.
“The establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Units is a vital step in this mission.
“The IGP calls on all citizens to play an active role in national security by reporting suspicious activities related to counterfeit currency and financial crimes.”
