President Tinubu Orders Crackdown on Cyber Criminals, Transnational Car Thieves

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigerian Ports Authority to intensify their efforts in combating individuals involved in stolen vehicle trafficking.

This directive comes after the EFCC recently handed over 53 vehicles and $180,300 to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as restitution for two Canadian citizens who fell victim to cybercrimes perpetrated by Nigerian nationals.

The President commended the EFCC for its collaboration with international partners, ensuring a coordinated response to this growing menace. Through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu affirmed, “Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries” .

Tinubu expressed concern over the involvement of transnational organized crime groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria. He emphasized that depriving criminals of their illicit proceeds is a crucial tool for law enforcement agencies . The President directed anti-corruption agencies to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial integrity from organized crime infiltration.

President Tinubu reassured that Nigeria will continue to collaborate with international partners to ensure cyber criminals and organized crime groups involved in transnational car thefts are deprived of their illegal benefits . His administration remains committed to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial crimes.

The President’s directive is a significant step towards addressing the growing concern of cybercrime and transnational car theft in Nigeria. By working together with international partners and intensifying efforts to combat these crimes, President Tinubu aims to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial integrity.