EFCC investigates travelers caught with undeclared foreign cash at Lagos Airport after FAAN and DSS handed them over for further probe

EFCC Investigates Travelers over undeclared foreign cash seized at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in a case that has sparked renewed calls for stricter airport surveillance.

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Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have begun investigations into two travellers, identified as Mamud Nasidi and Yahaya Nasidi, who were intercepted by officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria on Saturday, 11 October 2025.

The duo allegedly failed to declare a combined sum of $6,180 and £53,415 found in their possession during a routine check at the Lagos airport.

Both men had reportedly arrived in the country from Dubai, en route Addis Ababa, and were set to continue their journey to Abuja before their arrest.

According to the EFCC, the suspects were initially handed over to the Department of State Services for preliminary questioning before being transferred to the Commission for detailed investigation and possible prosecution.

Three mobile phones were also recovered from the suspects as exhibits. The items, along with the two men, were formally received by Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, Margaret Lamai, on behalf of the Acting Zonal Director, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Ahmed Ghali.

The EFCC Investigates Travelers case underscores the Commission’s ongoing commitment to curbing financial crimes and enforcing Nigeria’s anti–money laundering regulations, particularly at airports known for foreign currency smuggling attempts.

Officials have hinted that the suspects may face prosecution under laws governing currency declaration and movement of funds across Nigerian borders.

While investigations continue, the EFCC reaffirmed its resolve to strengthen institutional collaboration with the FAAN and DSS to ensure that travellers comply with financial disclosure requirements.

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The Commission urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious cash movements, describing the operation as a decisive step towards protecting Nigeria’s financial integrity.