IGP Establishes Anti-Money Laundering Units Across Nigeria to Combat Financial Crimes
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has launched Police Anti-Money Laundering Units nationwide, a strategic move designed to combat terrorism financing and enhance national security. According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the initiative aims to address financial crimes and curb illicit financial activities that could destabilize the country.
The newly established units will be led by the seasoned financial expert, CP Hyacinth Azuka Edozie, alongside officers of the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) stationed at State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs) across the country. The initiative is positioned as a critical step in fortifying the police’s role in national security by targeting the financial underpinnings of terrorism and other criminal activities.
“The establishment of these units underscores the Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding national security by preventing and detecting illicit financial activities,” said ACP Adejobi. He also highlighted the role of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in supporting these efforts globally to address various security threats.
In addition to the launch of the Anti-Money Laundering Units, the Police recently made significant breakthroughs in combating financial crimes. On December 8, 2024, in Gwale, Kano, operatives arrested Nura Ibrahim and seized counterfeit currency worth N129,542,823,000, including fake U.S. dollars, CFA francs, and Nigerian Naira. Ibrahim’s arrest led to the capture of accomplices Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi.
Moreover, on January 13, 2025, police operatives apprehended 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Karu, Nasarawa State, with counterfeit U.S. dollar bills totaling $160,000. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of Barde’s involvement and identify any other accomplices.
The IGP has called on Nigerian citizens to actively engage in the fight against financial crimes by reporting any suspicious activities related to counterfeit currency and illicit financial dealings. This new initiative marks a crucial step in strengthening law enforcement’s ability to curb financial crimes that threaten the nation’s stability and security.
