IGP Establishes Police Anti-Money Laundering Units, Reiterates Against Economic Sabotage 

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has established the Police Anti-Money Laundering Units of the Nigeria Police Force, appointing, a renowned financial expert, CP Hyacinth Azuka Edozie with officers of the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) to lead the units in all State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs) across the country.

The initiative was disclosed by the Police Public Relation officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi through a press release on Wednesday 15th January, 2025 at the Nigeria police force headquarter in Abuja. The establishment is a significant move to strengthen the Police’s role in national security, specifically in combating financial crimes. 

According to the press release, it reads:  “On December 8, 2024, at Gwale, Kano, operatives, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended Nura Ibrahim and discovered counterfeit currency, which included the sum of N129,542,823,000 in counterfeit currencies, with a breakdown of 3,366,000 in Counterfeit US Dollars, 51,970 in Counterfeit CFA franc, and 1,443,000 in counterfeit Naira. The arrest led to further arrests of accomplices Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi”. the released stated 

“Similarly, on January 13, 2025, the Force arrested 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Karu, Nasarawa State, with counterfeit U.S. dollar notes totalling $160,000. Following the arrest, further investigations are underway to determine the full scope of Barde’s involvement and identify any accomplices. The Police are committed to preventing further threats to the nation’s financial system”. The press added 

The establishment of the anti-money laundering units was posed arrests of some individuals in Kano and Nassarawa states respectively. To mitigate its menace, curb financial crimes and boost national security. 

The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its efforts to combat financial crimes and ensure a secure economic environment with a view to promoting national security for the safety of all Nigerians and residents. The establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Units is a vital step in this mission.

The IGP called on all citizens to play an active role in national security by reporting suspicious activities related to counterfeit currency and financial crimes.