The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has secured the extradition of a Nigerian suspect, Abubakar Aboki Muhammed, from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in connection with a multi-million-dollar fraud case involving false pretences, forgery, and money laundering.
Muhammed, who was the subject of an INTERPOL Red Notice, was repatriated on Friday, 23rd May 2025, following a coordinated effort between Nigerian authorities and international law enforcement agencies.
The case stems from a July 2023 complaint by an Abuja-based businessman, who alleged that Muhammed posed as a shipping agent to secure a contract for the transportation of 10 high-end vehicles worth $307,500 (approximately N430 million) from the UAE to Nigeria.
Investigations revealed that after receiving full payment into a third-party account at First City Monument Bank (FCMB), held by
Kano resident Anas Usaini, Muhammed provided a forged bill of lading and subsequently disappeared. The funds were later traced to money laundering activities in Dubai.
Muhammed was arrested in Dubai on 15th April 2025 following an international manhunt. His extradition marks a major breakthrough in Nigeriaās efforts to combat transnational financial crimes.
He is set to face prosecution at the Federal High Court in Nigeria.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the Dubai Police, INTERPOL NCB Abu Dhabi, and the Nigerian Consulate General in Dubai for their collaboration in ensuring Muhammedās return.
In a statement, Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi reiterated the NPFās commitment to working with global law enforcement agencies to track down and prosecute individuals involved in cross-border fraud.
“This extradition underscores our resolve to pursue economic criminals wherever they hide,” Adejobi stated. “We will continue to strengthen international partnerships to protect Nigerians from fraudulent schemes.”
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