EFCC Investigates Two Over Alleged Fake $899,800 in Kano

By Nasiru Abdullahi 

The Kano Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced investigation into a suspected case of currency counterfeiting involving two individuals arrested with fake $899,800 (Eight Hundred and Ninety-Nine Thousand, Eight Hundred United States Dollars).

The suspects, identified as Abubakar Hussaini, aged 42, and Sahabi Adamu, aged 53, were apprehended by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) along Maiduguri Road, Wudil, in Kano State. They were traveling in a commercial Golf 3 Station Wagon en route to Kila Village, located in Gwaram Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

According to a source within the EFCC, the NDLEA team discovered the suspected counterfeit notes concealed in a Maggi Star seasoning carton during a routine stop-and-search operation. Upon this discovery, the suspects and the recovered exhibits were immediately handed over to the EFCC for further investigation.

Preliminary findings by the EFCC revealed that the two men were on their way to meet one Muhammad Walo in Kila Village, who had promised to introduce them to a certain Mallam Mashiru. Mashiru, described as a self-acclaimed spiritualist, allegedly claimed he possessed the mystical ability to "transform" counterfeit dollars into genuine currency through ritual prayers.

The EFCC has stated that investigations are ongoing and that the suspects will be charged to court as soon as the inquiry is concluded.

The commission has reiterated its commitment to combating economic and financial crimes, while also warning the public against falling prey to fraudsters who exploit traditional and superstitious beliefs for criminal purposes.