The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently returned $180,300 and 53 vehicles to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, assets fraudulently acquired from Canadian citizens by Nigerian perpetrators.
During the signing ceremony, EFCC Executive Chairman Ola Olukoyede highlighted that these Canadians were victims of cybercrime, emphasizing the importance of asset recovery in the broader fight against financial crimes. He stated that this event underscores the vital need for international collaboration to combat financial and other criminal activities.
Olukoyede remarked, “This occasion demonstrates our commitment to fighting financial crimes and collaborating with global partners. It’s clear that financial crime has evolved into a worldwide issue.” He noted that the perpetrators operate seamlessly across borders, making international cooperation essential.
The EFCC Chairman highlighted that this partnership with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police has already yielded significant results, with multiple asset recoveries achieved through joint operations over several years.
“We are here to deliver assets recovered on behalf of Canadian victims of cybercrime. The operations, although lengthy, have led to substantial recoveries,” Olukoyede stated.
He insisted that Nigeria should not be unfairly labeled as a hub for financial crimes, reiterating the country’s zero-tolerance policy towards such activities. “Nigeria is a transit point for many criminal activities, similar to other countries, but we will continue to actively combat financial crimes,” he added.
The EFCC is committed to investigating, prosecuting, and recovering assets for victims of financial crimes, with Olukoyede stating, “The Nigerian government categorically disapproves of financial crimes. We are dedicated to restitution efforts for our victims.”
Notable recoveries included $164,000 from Bogomas Elena and $16,300 from Sandra Butler, all of which will be handed over to the Canadian authorities for restitution.
Zonal Director of the Lagos Directorate, Micheal Wetkas, shared that the involvement of Canadian police began in 2012 regarding missing vehicles en route from Canada. The collaboration led to the operation known as “Operation Hot Wheels,” through which the captured vehicles were recovered.
Wetkas described a romance scam case involving Bogomas, where a thorough investigation uncovered that the fraudster had invested the stolen funds in real estate in Lagos, which was subsequently recovered.
Canadian authorities, represented by Deputy High Commissioner Robert Aboumitri, praised the EFCC’s professional efforts in combating crime, emphasizing the importance of their partnership. “This is a testament to your professionalism and commitment. We value this partnership and seek to elevate it to new heights,” he stated.
