Tinubu Orders Crackdown on Transnational Car Thieves, Cybercrime in Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu has mandated a comprehensive crackdown on transnational car theft and cybercrime in Nigeria, emphasizing the nation's resolve to combat financial crimes.

The directive calls for intensified efforts from security and law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

Tinubu's initiative follows the recent handover of 53 vehicles and $180,300 by the EFCC to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). These assets were recovered from cybercrimes perpetrated by Nigerian nationals against two Canadian citizens. Expressing concern over organized criminal groups exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, Tinubu praised the EFCC's collaboration with international partners, ensuring a coordinated and professional response to this menace.

The president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated that Tinubu believes one of the most effective tools available to law enforcement is "denying criminals the proceeds from their illicit activities."

Onanuga also confirmed that Tinubu has directed all relevant agencies, particularly anti-corruption bodies, to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial integrity from organized crime infiltration.

Tinubu strongly affirmed that "Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries." He emphasized his administration's commitment to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial crimes, shows Nigeria's broader strategy to enhance security and uphold legal and economic standards through rigorous enforcement and international collaboration.