Crackdown on cybercrime, multinational car theft; Tinubu orders Security Agencies.

Nigerian Customs, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Ports Authority, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and other law enforcement and security agencies were ordered by President Bola Tinubu on Sunday to step up their crackdown on those in possession of or involved in the trafficking of stolen vehicles.

For the benefit of two Canadian residents who fell prey to cybercrimes committed by Nigerian nationals, he made the announcement as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission recently turned over 53 automobiles and $180,300 to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

He praised the Commission for working with other organisations to combat this threat in a professional and coordinated manner.

“President Tinubu orders crackdown on cyber criminals, transnational car thieves.” The message was signed by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, and delivered the direction and commendation.

“Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries,” the president firmly proclaimed, according to Onanuga.

He voiced his dismay at the fact that international organised crime groups were involved in the sale of stolen cars to Nigeria, pointing out that seizing illicitly acquired funds is a powerful weapon in the arsenal of law enforcement.

The President has issued a directive to all relevant authorities, with a special emphasis on those dealing with anti-corruption, urging them to safeguard the financial and economic systems of Nigeria against the penetration of organised crime.

In accordance with current laws and international treaties, “he also demands that the value of seized and confiscated moveable assets be preserved for the state, society, and victims,” the statement excerpt continued.

The president of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, has pledged that his country will keep cooperating with its foreign allies to root out transnational vehicle theft rings and cybercriminals.

He reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to combating financial crimes such as cybercrime, money laundering, and others.