Nigeria ramps up fight against car theft syndicates

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has launched a decisive crackdown on transnational car theft syndicates and cybercriminals operating within the country, as part of a broader effort to combat organized crime. The president’s directive follows the recovery of 53 stolen vehicles and $180,300, handed over to Canadian authorities.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu stressed the importance of depriving criminals of the proceeds from their illicit activities, urging Nigerian security and law enforcement agencies to intensify their efforts. “One of the most effective ways to combat such criminal activity is to deprive perpetrators of the proceeds of their crimes,” Tinubu stated.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) played a key role in the recent recovery, working alongside the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to return stolen assets to their rightful owners in Canada. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, during a handover ceremony, presented $180,300 in recovered funds and 53 stolen vehicles to RCMP representatives. According to the EFCC, the assets were linked to cybercrime victims Elena Bogomas and Sandra Butler, who were defrauded by Nigerian nationals.

“President Tinubu commended the EFCC for their international collaboration, saying that it reflects Nigeria’s commitment to tackling organized crime,” Onanuga noted in his statement. The president also expressed concern about Nigeria’s growing role as a hub for stolen vehicle exports, a trend that has drawn increased international scrutiny.

International Cooperation

The RCMP’s presence at the handover ceremony underscored the international dimension of the crime. Robert Aboumitri, First Secretary at the Canadian Deputy High Commission, and Nasser Salihou, RCMP Liaison Officer, praised Nigeria’s efforts to recover stolen goods. “This is a significant victory for cross-border cooperation,” Aboumitri remarked, “and we look forward to continuing to work together.”

Earlier this year, Justice Deinde I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi ordered the final forfeiture of 20 cars stolen from Canada and trafficked into Nigeria. These vehicles, now in the custody of the Nigerian government, marked another step forward in the battle against car theft syndicates that exploit cross-border networks to sell stolen goods.

Protecting Nigeria’s Integrity

President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve to protect Nigeria’s financial system from the influence of organized crime. “Nigeria will not become a destination for illicit wealth or stolen goods from other countries,” the president declared. He directed anti-corruption bodies, including the EFCC, to preserve confiscated assets according to existing laws and international agreements.

The crackdown also reflects Nigeria’s broader strategy to enhance its international reputation. “This is about safeguarding Nigeria’s financial integrity and standing on the global stage,” a senior government official commented.