The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, has directed all the country’s security agencies to intensify arrest and prosecution of cybercriminals and car thieves.
The President made this known on Sunday through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, acknowledging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the recovery of 53 vehicles and $180,300 from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), which were valuables of two Canadian citizens who were victims of cybercrimes perpetrated by Nigerian nationals.
President Tinubu expressed concerns transnational organised criminal groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, commending the Commission for collaborating with partners to ensure a coordinated and professional response to this menace.
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The president in this wise, directed “all security and law enforcement agencies — including EFCC, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) — to intensify efforts in cracking down on individuals in possession of and trafficking in stolen vehicles,” the statement quoted.
It added, “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 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 president strongly affirms, “Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries.”
President Tinubu affirms that his administration remains committed to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial crimes.
