The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) returned €5,100 to the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Juan Sell, on Friday, September 20, 2024.
The sum was recovered from a Nigerian romance fraudster who targeted Spanish victim Heinz Uchtmann. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede handed over the money in a ceremony, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the EFCC and the Spanish Police to combat international financial crimes.
Olukoyede highlighted the “borderless nature of financial crimes,” stating that, “Sometimes, you will discover that they operate from a different country, get their victims in another country, and the proceeds of crime go to a different country.”
He reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring that Nigeria does not become a safe haven for financial criminals, adding, “We are resolute to ensure that Nigeria is not made a safe haven for financial criminals and corrupt people.”
In response, the Spanish Ambassador praised the cooperation between the two countries. “Indeed, this is a joyful moment for all of us,”* said Sell, commending the successful recovery of the stolen funds and the collaboration between the EFCC and Spanish law enforcement.
He concluded by acknowledging the efforts of both nations, saying, “This is the result of the collaboration of two countries that are friends for the benefit of their citizens,” He said.
