The Nigeria Police Force, through the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja, has confirmed the successful extradition of a Nigerian fugitive, Abubakar Aboki Muhammed, from the United Arab Emirates over charges of obtaining money by false pretence, forgery, and money laundering.
Muhammed, who was arrested in Dubai on April 15, 2025, arrived in Nigeria on Friday, May 23, 2025, following the issuance of an INTERPOL Red Notice. His extradition marks a significant milestone in the country’s fight against transnational financial crime.
According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the case was triggered by a report in July 2023 from an Abuja-based international businessman who alleged that Muhammed defrauded him under the pretense of being a shipping agent.
The suspect allegedly misrepresented himself and secured a contract to handle the payment and freight of ten luxury vehicles valued at \$307,500 from the UAE to Nigeria. After receiving the payment through a third-party FCMB account belonging to one Anas Usaini, a resident of Kano, Muhammed disappeared. Further investigations revealed that the funds were laundered through activities in Dubai.
The complainant was issued a forged bill of lading for the vehicles before Muhammed became unreachable. Authorities eventually tracked and arrested him in Dubai, leading to his extradition for prosecution at the Federal High Court in Nigeria.
Commending the successful operation, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, acknowledged the vital roles played by the Dubai Police, INTERPOL NCB Abu Dhabi, and the Nigerian Consulate General in Dubai.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to collaborating with international law enforcement agencies to track, apprehend, and prosecute individuals involved in cross-border financial crimes,” the statement read.
Muhammed’s extradition underscores the NPF’s growing capacity to respond to complex transnational crimes and reinforces its commitment to justice and global security cooperation.