The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has returned N78,566,324.81 to American, Spanish, and Swiss victims of local fraudsters. The action is part of the agency’s commitment to tackling economic and financial crimes as well as offering restitution to victims of fraudulent practices.
During the activity at the EFCC corporate headquarters in Jabi, Abuja on Friday, the commission’s executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, noted that the demonstration is proof of Nigeria’s effort to alleviate all forms of corruption and financial crimes.
“(The event shows) a commitment to good governance, a commitment to stimulating the economy and a commitment to prove to the entire world that Nigeria is not a safe haven for financial crimes, a commitment to international cooperation and international synergy in the fight against financial crimes, which you will agree with me, has become a global crime,” he noted.
Olukoyede emphasised that Nigeria via the EFCC will make all efforts to prevent financial crimes from being perpetrated in the country’s system. Also to investigate matters when there has been a breach, trace and recover assets, and prosecute where necessary,
“We don’t just recover, we restitute the victims. We are here this morning to restitute those who were victimized through the perpetration of economic and financial crimes. It is important to know that once the proceeds of crime are recovered, the most responsible thing to do is to restitute the victims,” the EFC boss said.
In his words, the Permanent Secretary, of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Umar Ahmed, commended the EFCC for its anti-corruption fight while noting that the action will go a long way in restoring investors’ confidence in the country and promoting Nigeria’s image on the global scene. “All of us in the ministry are really happy with this development and we’ll keep on working with you and supporting you and in carrying your mandate.”
The assets handing over follows recent action by EFCC to prosecute 4 Chinese and 14 Filipinos for crimes such as cyber-terrorism and Internet fraud.
They were arraigned on charges bordering on cybercrimes, cyberterrorism, impersonation, possession of documents containing false pretence, and identity theft alongside a private company.
The individuals were part of the 792 members arrested by EFCC in December for cryptocurrency and romance fraud. The EFCC ambush tagged the “Eagle Flush Operation”, was recorded as the agency’s highest-ever raid.
Also Read: EFCC arraigns 4 Chinese for crypto scam, cyber terrorism and internet fraud.
Further breakdown on EFCC’s return of assets
In addition to money, the EFCC also returned vehicles and real estate to citizens of Spain, the United States of America, and Switzerland.
Acting Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, Maria Higon Velasco, received the sum of $1,300 and evidence of N30 million already transferred to the Embassy of Spain in Nigeria for onward transmission to a victim, Maria Del Rosario San Jose.
Florent Geel, Senior Political Officer, First Secretary, Embassy of Switzerland received $100,011.43 on behalf of a victim, Chantai Helene Lavancy, formerly known as Chantai Helene Maeder.
Also, Charles Smith, Legal Attache, Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, Embassy of the United States received the sum of $7,344, N7,963,483.35, and Bitcoin cryptocurrency valued at $4,470 on behalf of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to a victim, Maria Jesus Brockell.
Other assets received by Smith were 2 Mercedes Benz and one residential bungalow, located in Kaduna State for transfer to the crime victim. He received $7,527, $11,710.00, and N32,639,358.11 for Michael Smith, Cheryle Williams, and Marva Marrow respectively, who were crime victims.
Recognizing the EFCC’s effort, Velasco expressed her gratitude, adding that the move strengthens the collaboration between Nigeria and Spain. She also noted that the reacquisition of the assets gives the victims complete closure and allows them to feel whole again.
While noting the efforts directed at combating internet fraud and other financial crimes by EFCC, Geel stressed the recovery and restitution of the assets.
“Today’s restitution of money obtained from a Swiss citizen demonstrates the effectiveness but also integrity, professionalism, courage, and collaboration that occur between Nigeria and Switzerland… Switzerland will continue to work alongside the Nigerian government in the service of the security of our respective people. So, thank you again,” he said
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