The Nigerian government has officially returned 53 recovered vehicles and $180,300 to the Canadian Police, strengthening international cooperation in combating cross-border crime and asset recovery.
On Friday, the Nigerian government facilitated greater global cooperation to combat financial crimes by transferring 53 vehicles and $180,300 in recovered funds through their agency EFCC to Canada’s RCMP.
This action was taken for the benefit of those who have been victimized by financial frauds in Canada.
In a ceremony held in Abuja, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede presented the assets to representatives of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Nasser Sadiou, the agency’s Regional Officer and Robert Aboumitiri, First Secretary and Deputy High Commissioner of Canada to Nigeria represented RCMP.
According to Olukoyede, the cars were taken from Canada and subsequently located at different car dealerships in Nigeria.
According to him, nine vehicles had arrived at the customs port and were currently awaiting clearance.
He stated that Elena Bogomas, a Canadian citizen, was able to recover 164,000 U.S. dollars in funds lost to a romance scam. Additionally, Sandra Butler from Canada also received restitution totaling 16,300 U.S. dollars for her losses.
According to him, one of the scammers employed his earnings to acquire an estate and was subsequently apprehended, tried in court, and imprisoned. As a result, the assets were liquidated to reclaim the money.
Financial crimes taking a new direction worldwide is widely recognized as common knowledge.
He stated that the individuals responsible for these atrocities carry them out in a manner where we realize their actions are incredibly barbaric and know no bounds.
He claims they utilize multiple tactics to guarantee their movement through different jurisdictions.
Hence, it is crucial and urgent for us to team up with our global friends who share similar goals and objectives.
The actions carried out by the EFCC today are in representation of the Nigerian Federal Government.
He stated that we are here today to resolve this issue, which confirms the President’s authorization for us to lend our support.
“As per Olukoyede, this exercise showcased EFCC’s dedication towards fostering inter-agency collaboration across the nation.”
According to him, it also showcased the Nigerian government’s zero-tolerance policy towards financial crimes.
“We will not only pursue the matter, but also investigate it thoroughly. In addition to recovering any losses incurred by the victim, we are committed to prosecuting those responsible and ensuring their victims receive suitable restitution.”
On behalf of the victims in Canada, we have retrieved money, financial assets and vehicles.
In fact, the victims were represented in the recovery of all 53 vehicles.
Elena Bogomas, a Canadian victim, received 164,000 U.S. dollars in one instance.
He said, “In addition, we will be presenting to you today another amount of 16,300 U.S. dollars that was taken from a victim named Sandra Butler.”
After the signing of documents for the transfer of recovered assets, Sadiou expressed gratitude to both the Nigerian government and EFCC in their efforts towards combating corruption.
I am exceedingly pleased to be present in this place. It gives me a sense of warmth and familiarity, like I’m at home. The progress made towards recovery is truly satisfactory, and we extend our gratitude to the EFCC for their commendable efforts on the matter.
Your professionalism and commitment in the fight against financial crimes stand as a testimony.
He said that the EFCC is a crucial ally in combatting financial crimes not only within West Africa but throughout the world.
In his remarks, Aboumitiri praised the collaboration between the Canadian government and Nigeria’s Federal Government.
According to him, positive outcomes have been forthcoming from the partnership.
