Nigeria Customs Seize Over $1.1M Hidden in Date Packs at Kano Airport

Customs Intercept Undeclared Foreign Currency in Kano
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a staggering $1,154,900 and SR135,900 in undeclared foreign currency at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.

According to NCS spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada, the seizure occurred during a routine baggage inspection on an inbound passenger, Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, who arrived from Saudi Arabia on Saudi Airline Flight SV401.

Smuggling Attempt Foiled: Cash Hidden in Date Packs
During the physical examination of the passenger’s luggage, customs officers discovered the undeclared money concealed inside packs of palm dates (Dabino)—a crafty but ultimately unsuccessful smuggling attempt.

Maiwada emphasized that the interception aligns with NCS’s mission to enforce financial regulations and curb illicit financial flows.

Legal Action & Government Forfeiture
Following due process:
✔ The suspect and the seized currency were handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.
✔ The court convicted the defendant, ordering that the undeclared money be forfeited to the Federal Government under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.

The NCS reiterated the importance of compliance with financial regulations, urging travelers to declare cash and negotiable instruments exceeding the approved limit when entering or exiting Nigeria.

Final Thoughts: Stricter Monitoring at Nigerian Borders
This interception highlights the vigilance of customs officers in preventing illegal financial transactions. As authorities continue to crack down on money laundering, travelers are reminded to adhere to financial declaration laws to avoid legal consequences.