Father of 10 Arrested for Counterfeit Currency Scheme

Akilu Salisu, a 51-year-old father of ten from Malumfashi, Katsina State, was arrested alongside self-acclaimed cleric Umar Mikailu Shuaibu in connection with the circulation of counterfeit currency. Their arrest occurred during a stop-and-search operation conducted by the Kwara State command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on January 27, 2026.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) revealed that Salisu and Shuaibu were 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 distribution, with Shuaibu identified as a key figure in the distribution chain.

The EFCC's head of media, Dele Oyewale, stated that Shuaibu's account showed multiple suspicious transactions totaling N5 million. The suspects are set to be arraigned in court following ongoing investigations, as counterfeit currency is treated as a serious financial crime under Nigerian law.