Speaking at the signing ceremony for the return of the recovered vehicles and funds, the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Ola Olukoyede, stated that the Canadians were victims of cybercrimes.
He stressed that recovering and returning the assets reinforced the commission’s commitment to fighting financial crimes.
The EFCC Chairman said the event also emphasised the need for countries to collaborate to tackle financial and other forms of crime.
This collaboration he hinted has resulted in many recoveries and the impact of joint operations.”
Olukoyede noted that although the operations spanned several years, they ultimately led to significant recoveries.
Olukoyede stated that Nigeria should not be seen as a hub of financial and other crimes, adding that the country does not tolerate criminal activities.
The EFCC Chairman pledged to investigate, prosecute, and recover assets for victims of financial crimes.
Speaking on the recoveries, he said $164,000 was taken from Bogomas Elena, while one Sandra Butler was defrauded of $16,300.
Providing background on the recovery process, Zonal Director of the Lagos Directorate, Micheal Wetkas, said the Canadian police approached the commission in 2012 regarding stolen vehicles that had gone missing en route from Canada.He said Bogomas’ case was a romance scam reported to the commission.
Speaking on behalf of the Canadian Police, Premier Secretary and Deputy High Commissioner of Canada, Robert Aboumitri, commended the EFCC for their efforts.