Tinubu orders nationwide crackdown on cybercriminals, transnational car theft syndicates

President Bola Tinubu has tasked Nigerian security and law enforcement agencies to combat cybercriminals and organised crime gangs involved in the theft and trafficking of stolen vehicles across international borders.

President Tinubu’s directive follows the recent recovery and handover of 53 vehicles and $180,300 by the EFCC to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

The directive, which requires the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to step up enforcement, is aimed at dismantling syndicates involved in transnational vehicle theft and cybercrime.

The president stressed that one of the most effective ways to combat organized crime is to deprive criminals of the proceeds of their illegal activities.

The funds and vehicles were returned to two Canadian citizens who had been victims of a cybercriminal scheme carried out by Nigerian nationals.

READ ALSO:

Tinubu commended the EFCC for working with international partners to ensure justice is done to victims and send a strong message to criminals.

Tinubu expressed concern that Nigeria is a destination for stolen vehicles and commended the proactive efforts of law enforcement to protect the country’s reputation and integrity.

He reiterated that Nigeria will not serve as a haven for stolen assets or illicit wealth from abroad.

In his statement, Tinubu also called on anti-corruption agencies to remain vigilant and protect the value of confiscated assets to the state, society and victims, in line with existing laws and international agreements.

He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to tackling cybercrime, money laundering and financial crime at both national and international levels.

“Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles or a haven for illicit wealth from abroad,” Tinubu declared, reinforcing his government’s resolve to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial systems from infiltration by organised crime.

The President’s directive is part of a broader initiative to restore public confidence and strengthen the country’s commitment to complying with international standards in combating crime and financial corruption.