PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu on Sunday directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Ports Authority and other security and law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts in cracking down on individuals in possession of and trafficking in stolen vehicles.
This was as he acknowledged the recent handover of 53 vehicles and $180,300 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, on behalf of two Canadian citizens who were victims of cybercrimes perpetrated by Nigerian nationals.
He commended the Commission for collaborating with partners to ensure a coordinated and professional repose to this menace.
Tinubu conveyed the directive and commendation through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, titled ‘President Tinubu orders crackdown on cyber criminals, transnational car thieves.’
According to Onanuga, the President strongly affirmed, “Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries.”
He expressed concern over the involvement of transnational organised criminal groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, noting that one of the most effective tools available to law enforcement agencies is depriving criminals of the proceeds from their illicit activities.
“The President further directs all relevant agencies, particularly the anti-corruption agencies, to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial integrity from organised crime infiltration.
“He also demands that the value of seized and confiscated moveable assets be preserved for the State, society, and victims in line with existing legislation and international conventions,” the statement partly read.
Tinubu promised that Nigeria will continue to work with its international partners to ensure that cyber criminals and organised crime groups involved in transnational car thefts are deprived of the benefits of their illegal activities.
He affirmed that his administration remains committed to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial crimes.
