EFCC Probes Man Over Undeclared $59,000 at Lagos Airport.

EFCC Probes Man Over Undeclared $59,000 at Lagos Airport.

The Nigerian world

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into Duru Ikechukwu Damian, who was arrested at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos for allegedly failing to declare $59,000 in cash.

Damian was intercepted by Nigeria Customs Service officials during a routine check at the Currency Declaration Desk while preparing to board an Emirates flight to Dubai.

Although he declared $10,000—the legal threshold—a search revealed an additional $49,000 hidden in his possession.

Customs authorities formally handed him over to the EFCC, with officials emphasizing that despite frequent announcements and signage, travelers continue to violate currency declaration laws.

EFCC’s Acting Zonal Director, Ahmed Ghali, stated that the agency remains committed to enforcing anti-money laundering regulations and will hold violators accountable.

Under Nigerian law, any traveler entering or leaving the country must declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding $10,000 USD (or its equivalent in other currencies) at the point of entry or departure.

Failure to declare amounts above this threshold can result in seizure of the funds, arrest, and prosecution.