EFCC Arrests 12 for Foreign Currency Counterfeiting in Kwara

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested twelve individuals in Kwara State for their alleged involvement in foreign currency counterfeiting. Among those arrested were 51-year-old Akilu Salisu from Malumfashi Local Government Area in Katsina State and self-acclaimed cleric Umar Mikailu Shuaibu from Kafor Wambari Area in Kano State.

The arrests occurred during a stop-and-search operation conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on January 27, 2026. During the operation, Nura Shuaibu was found in possession of 435 pieces of counterfeit $100 notes and 378 pieces of counterfeit £50 notes.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the counterfeit currency was intended for delivery to Salisu, who was identified as the final recipient in the distribution chain. Further investigations revealed Shuaibu's account on a digital payment platform had multiple suspicious transactions amounting to N5 million, with no satisfactory explanation provided.

The suspects will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.