On Friday, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has transferred $180,300 and 53 vehicles, which had been fraudulently obtained by certain Nigerians from Canadian citizens, to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
During the ceremony to sign over the recovered vehicles and funds, the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Ola Olukoyede, emphasised that the Canadians had fallen victim to cybercrimes.
“This is an occasion we are using to demonstrate our commitment to fighting financial crimes and to also collaborate with other countries and agencies around the world. It’s common knowledge that financial crimes have taken a new turn all across the globe.
“It has become a global problem. The people who perpetrate these crimes do so in a way that shows their activities are borderless and barbaric.
“They employ various means to ensure they move across jurisdictions. That’s why it has become very necessary and imperative for us to collaborate with our friends across the world.
“Most countries are collaborating with us in the fight against financial crimes. What you are witnessing today is a demonstration of that reinforced commitment. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police has been collaborating with us.
“This collaboration has resulted in many recoveries and the impact of joint operations.
“In total, 53 vehicles were recovered on behalf of the victims. In one instance, $164,000 was taken from Elena, and $16,300 was also recovered. These will be handed over to the Canadian police to return to the victims,” he said.
