Police Uncover Theft of ₦43.16 Million in Alleged Currency Smuggling Case
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has uncovered a shocking case of misconduct involving some of its officers in connection with a ₦74.95 million cash smuggling scandal.
The officers attempted to steal N43.16 million from the total amount, which was being transported on behalf of a client.
In a statement addressing the issue, Force Public Relations Officer, Mr. Muyiwa Adejobi, dismissed social media allegations that Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, was shielding a cartel involved in currency smuggling. Adejobi described these claims as unfounded and aimed at tarnishing the IGP’s reputation.
How the Incident Unfolded
The scandal began on August 26, 2023, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, when officers from Zone 7 Headquarters unlawfully intercepted ₦74.95 million being transported by Andrew Ejah, an employee of FATFAD Cargo Nigeria Limited.
The officers, led by DSP Peter Ejike (a lawyer in charge of the Zone 7 Legal Section), Inspector Ekende Edwin, Inspector Esther Okafor, and Sergeant Talabi Kayode, detained Ejah without proper authorization.
They falsely reported the amount recovered as N31.79 million and demanded a cut from the funds to suppress the case.
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Petition and Investigation
Outraged by the officers’ demands, the rightful owners of the money filed a petition with the Force Headquarters in Abuja. The case was immediately referred to the IGP Monitoring Unit for a thorough investigation.
During the investigation, ₦31.79 million was recovered from the officers. However, forensic analysis revealed that the officers had conspired to steal an additional ₦43.16 million, which they attempted to hide outside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) while waiting for the situation to cool down.
Efforts to Cover Up the Crime
The officers went to great lengths to cover their tracks. They took photographs of the arrested suspect and the cash but later claimed the phone containing the evidence had been damaged and lost. They also spread false information to media outlets to divert attention from their misconduct.
Despite their efforts, forensic intelligence and investigation exposed their actions, leading to their suspension.
Disciplinary Actions and Sanctions
The officers involved have been found guilty of serious misconduct, including:
- Tampering with evidence
- Abuse of office
- Corrupt practices
- Unauthorized detention
- Acting in a manner unbecoming of police officers
In his statement, Adejobi emphasized that the police should have handled the case professionally, but the officers’ greed led them to act criminally. He reiterated the NPF’s commitment to maintaining integrity and professionalism in its operations.
Conclusion
The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its fight against corruption within its ranks. The officers involved in this case have been suspended and will face further disciplinary actions. This incident underscores the NPF’s determination to uphold the law and ensure justice, even when its own officers are implicated.
By addressing this issue transparently, the NPF aims to rebuild public trust and demonstrate its commitment to ethical policing in Nigeria.
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