The Kano Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced an investigation into Haruna Yusuf and multiple undeclared foreign currencies intercepted by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The currencies include $73,300, £15,957 and 827,800 Saudi Riyals, which were allegedly concealed in footwear and sports shoes.
The suspect and recovered currencies were handed over to the EFCC by the Acting Customs Area Comptroller of the Kano/Jigawa Command, Deputy Comptroller U.U. Adamu.
According to Adamu, the first interception occurred on August 8, 2026, when Customs officers found 827,800 Saudi Riyals and $53,300 concealed inside footwear in an unaccompanied Saudi Air luggage.
A second interception was made on August 12, when officers flagged luggage belonging to Yusuf, who arrived on Ethiopian Airlines flight ET941. A secondary screening using Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology reportedly uncovered $20,000 and £15,957 concealed inside sports shoes.
Adamu said the interceptions demonstrated the vigilance of Customs officers in preventing the movement of undeclared foreign currencies above the permitted threshold. He added that the agency would continue to strengthen border controls through technology, intelligence and collaboration with other agencies.
Receiving the suspect and exhibits on behalf of EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, the Acting Zonal Director, Friday S. Ebelo, commended the Customs Service for its cooperation.
Ebelo warned that failure to declare large amounts of foreign currency is a violation of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. He urged travellers to comply with declaration requirements, stressing that declaring currency does not attract a penalty, while concerns may arise over the source of undeclared funds.
