The Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in partnership with a Joint Task Force involving teams from the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Customs Service, made a significant breakthrough on Wednesday. 115 individuals suspected of engaging in currency racketeering were apprehended in Enugu State.
According to Dele Oyewale, the head of media and publicity for the EFCC, the suspects, consisting of 113 men and 2 women, were captured in a sting operation at Owerri Road, Ogui, Enugu State. This action was in response to reliable intelligence indicating the presence of illegal foreign exchange markets operated by bureau de change operators, currency speculators, and street hawkers in the area. The operation resulted in the recovery of a substantial amount of cash, including N110,700,000.00, $8,368.00, €2,725, 900 South African Rands, 32,000.00 CFA, 100 Turkiya, and 500 Bank Mozambique currencies in various denominations. Additionally, a safe abandoned by one of the street hawkers was also secured.
Preliminary investigation led by Mr. Oyedele has revealed that some of the apprehended individuals are foreign nationals from Niger Republic. The suspects are set to face legal charges in the near future, marking a significant development in the fight against illegal currency activities in the region.
