EFCC Returns Proceeds of Fraud to Foreign Victims
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has returned a total of $120,548.43 and N70,602,841.46 to victims of local fraudsters from the United States, Spain, and Switzerland. This action highlights the EFCC’s ongoing commitment to combating economic and financial crimes while ensuring restitution for the victims of fraudulent activities.
During a handover ceremony on Friday at the EFCC’s headquarters in Abuja, the Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, emphasized that this event signifies the Nigerian government’s dedication to the fight against corruption and financial crimes under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. Olukoyede further stated that the restitution process reinforces good governance, supports economic growth, and sends a clear message that Nigeria is not a safe haven for financial crimes.
He also highlighted the importance of international collaboration in tackling financial crimes, calling them a global issue that requires collective action.
In addition to the monetary compensation, the EFCC also returned vehicles and real estate to the victims, who are citizens of Spain, the United States, and Switzerland.
Maria Higon Velasco, the Acting Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, received $1,300 and evidence of N30 million already transferred to the Spanish Embassy in Nigeria, which will be sent to Maria Del Rosario San Jose, the victim.
Florent Geel, Senior Political Officer and First Secretary at the Swiss Embassy, received $100,011.43 on behalf of Chantai Helene Lavancy (formerly Chantai Helene Maeder) from Switzerland.
Charles Smith, the Legal Attaché at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) at the US Embassy, received $7,344; N7,963,483.35; and Bitcoin valued at $4,470.00 for onward transmission to Maria Jesus Brockell, a victim from the United States.
Additionally, Smith took possession of several assets: a Mercedes Benz E550 4Matic with chassis number WDDHF9AB6AA111112, a Mercedes Benz C450 AMG with chassis number WDD20J0641F282467, and a residential bungalow located at 17/19 Seaman Street, Unguwar Maigero, Kaduna, which will be sent to the victim. Smith also received various sums on behalf of other US victims, including $7,527 for Michael Smith, $11,710 for Cheryle Williams, and N32,639,358.11 for Marva Marrow.
In her remarks, Velasco expressed her gratitude to the Nigerian government and the EFCC for their collaboration. “This is a sign of the collaboration between Nigeria and Spain, and we are very grateful for this partnership,” she said.
