Several suspected security operatives were arrested at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed Airport with $6.1 million in undeclared cash. The DSS and EFCC have launched an investigation.
Several individuals believed to be security operatives were arrested on Saturday at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MM2) in Ikeja, Lagos, after being caught with more than $6.1 million in undeclared cash.
The group was attempting to board an Aero Contractors domestic flight when they were intercepted during routine screening.
Suspicious Luggage Raises Alarm
While the exact number of suspects remains unclear, multiple sources at the airport confirmed that the individuals were found in possession of several large boxes filled with U.S. dollars. The group had reportedly passed initial security checks without incident.
However, suspicions were raised by Aero Contractors staff, who noticed the unusually heavy boxes near the aircraft.
Claimed to Be Escorting a Suspect
Sanusi explained that the men claimed to be security agents escorting a suspect and accompanying evidence, which initially allowed them to bypass certain checks.
However, their suspicious behavior at the boarding gate prompted Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers to intervene.
Case Handed Over to DSS and EFCC
Upon further inspection, the AVSEC team escalated the matter, handing the suspects over to the Department of State Services (DSS). The DSS subsequently transferred the case to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.
Airport officials expressed concern over the apparent abuse of law enforcement privileges, noting that the suspects’ actions violated both aviation security regulations and financial reporting laws.
Ongoing Investigation
As of press time, neither the DSS nor the EFCC had issued an official statement regarding the identities of the suspects or the source of the funds. However, sources within the airport security network confirmed that the cash was undeclared and not accompanied by any official documentation.
The incident has raised questions about security oversight and compliance with anti-money laundering regulations at Nigerian airports.
A senior aviation official, who requested anonymity, said the case underscores the need for stricter enforcement of financial declaration laws and enhanced inter-agency coordination at airports.
Background
Under Nigerian law, travelers are required to declare any cash exceeding $10,000 when entering or leaving the country. Failure to do so constitutes a violation of financial regulations and may attract criminal prosecution.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Aero Contractors have both pledged to cooperate fully with investigators to ensure transparency and accountability in the ongoing probe.
The EFCC is expected to determine whether the funds were linked to money laundering, corruption, or other financial crimes.