'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive to Nigeria’s security and law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts in combating cybercrime and transnational car theft operations. This order, aimed at disrupting the activities of organised crime groups, comes as Nigeria strengthens its cooperation with international partners to tackle these growing threats.
In a press statement today signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu urged agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to target individuals involved in the possession and trafficking of stolen vehicles. He emphasized the need for law enforcement agencies to deprive criminals of the proceeds of their illicit activities, describing this as one of the most effective tools in the fight against organized crime.
The President’s order follows a recent handover by the EFCC of 53 vehicles and $180,300 to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). These items were recovered on behalf of two Canadian citizens who fell victim to cybercrime schemes orchestrated by Nigerian nationals. The gesture, part of the ongoing collaboration between Nigeria and Canada, was hailed by President Tinubu as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to supporting global efforts against organized crime.
Expressing concern over the involvement of transnational criminal groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, the President commended the EFCC for working alongside international partners to ensure a swift and professional response to this menace. He stressed that Nigeria must not be seen as a hub for stolen goods or a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries.
President Tinubu further instructed anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to safeguard the nation’s economic and financial integrity by preventing organized crime from infiltrating these sectors. He directed that all seized assets, particularly those related to transnational crimes, be preserved in line with existing legislation and international agreements, ensuring they are returned to the rightful owners or benefit the state and society.
“Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries,” the President affirmed, reinforcing his administration’s stance against financial crimes, including money laundering and cybercrime. He assured the public and Nigeria’s international partners that his government remains committed to tackling these challenges head-on.
As part of the ongoing efforts, President Tinubu reiterated that his administration would continue to engage with international partners to strengthen the country’s response to cybercriminals and organized crime groups. He emphasized the importance of law enforcement agencies working together to combat these sophisticated operations, which have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s global standing and economic integrity.
The crackdown on cybercrime and transnational car theft comes as part of broader efforts to enhance national security and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and curbing illicit activities within its borders.
This latest move marks a significant step in the government’s fight against organized crime and cyber-related offenses, with further actions expected in the coming months as Nigeria intensifies its efforts to address these issues.