The EFCC has returned $132,362 and N78.5 million to fraud victims from the U.S., Spain, and Switzerland. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede led the restitution, highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to fighting financial crimes. The recovered assets included cash, luxury cars, and real estate, reinforcing international cooperation in anti-corruption efforts.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has returned a total of $132,362 and N78.5 million to fraud victims from the United States, Spain, and Switzerland. The restitution was made on Friday at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to combating financial crimes.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, while overseeing the handover, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to retrieving stolen assets and ensuring justice for fraud victims. He emphasized that Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, remains resolute in the fight against corruption and financial crimes.
Among the restituted assets were cash, luxury vehicles, and real estate, all recovered from fraudsters operating within Nigeria. Spain’s Acting Ambassador to Nigeria, Maria Higon Velasco, received $1,300 and confirmation of N30 million transferred to a Spanish victim. Similarly, Florent Geel from the Swiss Embassy collected $100,011 for a victim.
The United States Embassy’s legal attaché, Charles Smith, accepted over $7,000 in cash, a Bitcoin wallet valued at $4,470, and luxury vehicles, including two Mercedes-Benz cars, on behalf of American victims.
In response, foreign officials expressed appreciation for the EFCC’s efforts. Smith highlighted the significance of the restitution, noting that it offers closure to victims and strengthens Nigeria’s reputation in global anti-fraud efforts.
The restitution exercise reinforces Nigeria’s cooperation with international partners in curbing financial crimes, with officials pledging continued collaboration to ensure justice for fraud victims worldwide.
