Tinubu asks police, customs, EFCC to clamp down on cyber criminals, car thieves

President Bola Tinubu has directed security and law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to combat cybercriminals and transnational car thieves operating within the country.

The president’s order follows the government’s commitment to curb organised crime networks that engage in illicit activities, particularly those targeting foreign nationals.

In a statement on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to the president, Tinubu commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its recent collaboration with Canadian authorities.

This partnership led to the recovery of $180,000 and 53 vehicles, which were handed over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) on behalf of two citizens the country.

The president acknowledged the significance of this cooperation and called for sustained efforts in tackling transnational crimes.

“Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries,” Tinubu said.

He emphasised that his administration will remain relentless in tackling financial crimes, cybercrime, and money laundering.

He stressed that the most effective way to weaken organised crime is by depriving criminals of the proceeds from their illegal activities.

The president also expressed concern over the involvement of transnational organised criminal groups in the export of stolen vehicles into Nigeria.

He urged law enforcement agencies, particularly the EFCC, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), to step up their vigilance and work together to intercept these criminal networks.

He noted that seized and confiscated assets, especially moveable property like vehicles, should be preserved for the benefit of the state, society, and victims in accordance with existing legislation and international conventions.

“Criminals must not benefit from their illicit activities,” Tinubu said, adding that Nigeria is committed to maintaining strong relationships with international partners to ensure that criminals who operate across borders are brought to justice.