The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has established the Police Anti-Money Laundering Units within the Nigeria Police Force.
This was disclosed by CP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, in a statement on Wednesday, January 15.
According to the statement, the units will be led by Chief Police Officer (CPO) Hyacinth Azuka Edozie, a renowned financial expert, with officers of the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) assigned to lead the units at State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs) nationwide.
Adejobi said the initiative is aimed at bolstering the Police’s role in securing Nigeria against the growing threat of financial crimes, including money laundering, which are often linked to terrorist financing and other criminal activities that destabilize the country.
He added that the move aligns with the government’s commitment to safeguarding national security and preventing illicit financial activities that pose a threat to Nigeria’s stability.
“The establishment of the units will also strengthen the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies, particularly in collaboration with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), to enhance global oversight and tackle emerging security threats,” he noted.
He added that the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, remains unwavering in its dedication to ensuring a secure economic environment by combating financial crimes and safeguarding Nigeria’s financial system.