The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced investigations into foreign currencies seized by officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.

In a statement on Monday, the EFCC said its Kano Zonal Directorate was probing the seizure of $86,500, 305,150 Saudi Riyals, and €200 found concealed in an unaccompanied bag intercepted on Sunday, 27 April 2025. The bag, smuggled into the country, was discovered when a clearing agent attempted to retrieve it.

“Upon physical inspection, Customs officers uncovered the foreign currencies hidden within bedspreads (duvets) and date packages tucked inside the luggage,” the EFCC stated via its official X (formerly Twitter) account.

Further investigations led to the arrest of two suspects—Bala and Abdullahi Tahir— the latter allegedly tasked with receiving the bag after clearance.

The funds were handed over to the EFCC by Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdulahi Hashim and received by Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Aminu Bashir.

The EFCC confirmed that the suspects and the seized currencies are currently in its custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.

Commending the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance, the EFCC reiterated the importance of inter-agency collaboration in protecting the nation’s economy. It also noted ongoing efforts to sensitise stakeholders on cash movement regulations.

“On Saturday, 26 April 2025, the EFCC, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigeria Customs Service jointly organised a sensitisation programme to educate stakeholders— including bureaux de change, travel agencies, airport authorities, pilgrim boards, and the Kano Chamber of Commerce— on the legal requirements for moving cash in and out of Nigeria,” the agency added.