Tinubu Orders Crackdown on Transnational Car Thieves in Nigeria
Commitment to International Collaboration
President Bola Tinubu has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to collaborating with international partners to combat cybercrime and organized crime groups involved in transnational car theft. His administration aims to ensure that these criminals are stripped of the benefits derived from their illegal activities.
Directives to Security Agencies
In light of this objective, President Tinubu has directed key security and law enforcement agencies—including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)—to intensify their efforts against individuals involved in the possession and trafficking of stolen vehicles.
Strategy to Deny Criminal Gains
The president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, emphasized that denying criminals the proceeds of their illicit activities is one of the most effective strategies available to law enforcement. Tinubu highlighted the recent handover of 53 vehicles and $180,300 by the EFCC to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) as a notable example of international cooperation in addressing cybercrime perpetrated by Nigerian nationals.
Addressing Transnational Organized Crime
President Tinubu expressed concern regarding the role of transnational organized criminal groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria. He commended the EFCC for its collaborative efforts with international partners to mount a coordinated and professional response to this growing threat.
Safeguarding Economic Integrity
Onanuga further confirmed that the president has mandated all relevant agencies, particularly anti-corruption bodies, to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial integrity from infiltration by organized crime. The president has also called for the preservation of the value of seized and confiscated movable assets for the benefit of the state, society, and victims, in accordance with existing legislation and international conventions.
Stance Against Illicit Activities
Emphasizing Nigeria’s stance, Onanuga stated that President Tinubu firmly believes Nigeria should not be a destination for stolen vehicles or a haven for illicit wealth. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial crimes, signaling a robust approach to ensuring national and international security
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