By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a bid to combat economic sabotage, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) defended its recent interception and arrest of 21 trucks loaded with food items allegedly being smuggled into neighboring countries. The spokesperson of the Commission, Assistant Commander Dele Oyewale, emphasized the EFCC's mandate to tackle all forms of economic and financial crimes, particularly those impacting the economy adversely.
Oyewale elaborated on the significance of the EFCC's intervention, stating, "Anything that has a negative bearing on the economy is an act of economic sabotage or serving as a leakage, distortion, or disequilibrium in the economy. The Commission has a responsibility to tackle it, and that is what the EFCC has done." He stressed the importance of safeguarding the nation's resources and preventing illicit activities that undermine economic stability.
The interception of the smuggled goods occurred at exit routes leading to Cameroon and Chad, highlighting the Commission's vigilance and effectiveness in surveillance. Oyewale clarified that while the arrests took place near border areas, the EFCC's operations were not confined to specific regions. "An arrest can be made anywhere," he affirmed, underscoring the Commission's proactive approach to combating economic crimes.
Furthermore, Oyewale urged the public to commend and support the EFCC's efforts in curbing economic sabotage. "The Commission is proactive and is everywhere to ensure that the economy is revamped so that Nigerians can get optimum value," he stated. He emphasized the collective responsibility of citizens in combating illicit activities that threaten the nation's economic well-being.
In conclusion, Oyewale reiterated the importance of addressing incidents of economic sabotage and called for unity in tackling such challenges. "We all need to join our hands together to ensure that this problem is directly addressed," he urged. The EFCC remains committed to its mandate of safeguarding the nation's economic interests and upholding the rule of law.
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