In a major breakthrough in the fight against transnational financial crime, the Nigeria Police Force has successfully extradited a Nigerian fugitive, Abubakar Aboki Muhammed, from the United Arab Emirates. The extradition, facilitated through INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, was completed on Friday, May 23, 2025.
The suspect, Abubakar Muhammed, was wanted in connection with a high-profile case involving obtaining money by false pretence, forgery, and money laundering. A Red Notice was issued by INTERPOL NCB Abuja following an in-depth investigation that began in July 2023 after a complaint by an Abuja-based international businessman.
According to police reports, Muhammed posed as a shipping agent and fraudulently secured a contract to manage the freight and payment logistics for ten luxury vehicles worth $307,500 from the UAE to Nigeria. The victim made full payment to a third-party account at FCMB belonging to one Anas Usaini of Kano State. The funds were allegedly laundered through financial channels in Dubai.
Investigators further revealed that Muhammed issued a forged bill of lading before severing all contact with the complainant. He was eventually apprehended in Dubai on April 15, 2025, and has now been repatriated to Nigeria to face trial at the Federal High Court.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a press release referenced CZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/439, commended the collaborative efforts of the Dubai Police, INTERPOL NCB Abu Dhabi, and the Nigerian Consulate General in Dubai.
“The successful extradition of Abubakar Aboki Muhammed marks a significant milestone in our ongoing campaign to dismantle transnational criminal networks. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to working with international partners to ensure that fugitives face justice, no matter where they attempt to hide,” the statement read.
The extradition underscores the resolve of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun to intensify international cooperation in combating sophisticated financial crimes targeting Nigerian citizens and businesses.