• Security operatives intercept multiple passengers at Lagos airport
• Sources link suspects to politically exposed person (PEP)
• EFCC begins investigation into suspected money-laundering operation
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Security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA1), Lagos, have arrested a group of passengers allegedly caught travelling with over $6.1 million in cash, believed to be part of an illicit financial movement.
According to multiple security sources who spoke to Premium Times, the suspects — described as a group of young men — were intercepted at the domestic terminal while preparing to board an Aero Contractors flight.
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Insiders familiar with the operation said the arrested passengers were believed to be couriers for a politically exposed person (PEP), though their exact identities and final destination remain undisclosed as investigations continue.
The suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit after routine screening raised red flags over the unusually large sum of foreign currency being transported.
Handed Over to EFCC
Confirming the development, a senior AVSEC official said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken custody of the suspects for further interrogation.
“We are still working with the EFCC to unravel the full details,” the source disclosed on Saturday under anonymity due to lack of authorisation to speak publicly.
This incident rekindles memories of a similar 2020 case when Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) officers seized $8,065,612 concealed in 20 wraps inside a coaster bus at the airport tarmac.
At the time, former Comptroller-General Col. Hameed Ali (retd.) said the seizure followed intelligence-led surveillance designed to curb illegal financial transfers out of the country.
