President Bola Tinubu has ordered a decisive response against cybercriminals and transnational car theft networks operating within Nigeria. This announcement comes in the wake of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) handing over 53 stolen vehicles and $180,300 to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), highlighting the government’s commitment to combatting such crimes.

In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Tinubu directed security and law enforcement agencies—including the EFCC, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)—to intensify their efforts in tracking down and prosecuting individuals involved in these illicit activities.

The President underscored the importance of depriving criminals of the financial benefits gained from their illegal operations as a key strategy in combating organized crime. He praised the EFCC for its collaboration with international law enforcement agencies, particularly the RCMP, to facilitate the recovery of stolen assets belonging to two Canadian citizens defrauded by Nigerian nationals.

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Expressing his concerns about the role of transnational criminal organizations that utilize Nigeria as a hub for exporting stolen vehicles, Tinubu commended the EFCC for its recent successes in recovering stolen vehicles and funds, which he described as a strong testament to Nigeria’s commitment to fighting organized crime.

“The President notes that one of the most effective tools available to law enforcement agencies is depriving criminals of the proceeds from their illicit activities,” the statement elaborated. It further reiterated Tinubu’s determination to ensure that Nigeria does not become a safe haven for illicit wealth or stolen goods from other countries.

In addition to this crackdown, the President directed relevant agencies, particularly anti-corruption bodies, to safeguard confiscated assets in accordance with existing laws and international agreements. He emphasized the necessity of protecting Nigeria’s financial integrity from the pervasive influence of organized crime.