EFCC returns over $132,000 and N78M to US, Spanish, and Swiss fraud victims

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over $132,362.43 and N78,566,324.81 to victims of fraud from the United States, Spain, and Switzerland.

The disbursement follows successful recovery operations targeting local fraudsters.

The handover ceremony was conducted on Friday, February 21, 2025, at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, by Executive Chairman Mr. Ola Olukoyede.

During the event, Mr. Olukoyede emphasized the Nigerian federal government’s resolute fight against corruption and financial crime, noting that the initiative reflects the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for good governance, economic stimulation, and global cooperation.

He stated,

“This event is a demonstration of the commitment of the federal government of Nigeria and that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the fight against corruption and financial crimes. It is a commitment to good governance, economic stimulation, and to showing the world that Nigeria is not a safe haven for financial crimes.”

Mr. Olukoyede further explained that the EFCC’s mandate extends beyond mere asset recovery to include the full restitution of victims:

“We don’t just recover; we restitute the victims. Once the proceeds of crime are recovered, the most responsible course of action is to return them to those who were wronged.”

In addition to monetary funds, the restitution package included vehicles and real estate, which have been allocated to the respective embassies for onward transmission to the affected individuals:

• Spain: Acting Ambassador Maria Higon Velasco received $1,300 along with evidence of a N30 million transfer to the Spanish Embassy in Nigeria, destined for victim Maria Del Rosario San Jose.
• Switzerland: Florent Geel, Senior Political Officer at the Swiss Embassy, accepted $100,011.43 on behalf of victim Chantai Helene Lavancy (formerly Chantai Helene Maeder).
• United States: FBI Legal Attaché Charles Smith received multiple items on behalf of the US Embassy:
• $7,344, N7,963,483.35, and Bitcoin valued at $4,470 for victim Maria Jesus Brockell;
• Two Mercedes Benz vehicles and a residential bungalow in Kaduna for a designated victim;
• $7,527 for victim Michael Smith;
• $11,710 for victim Cheryle Williams; and
• N32,639,358.11 for victim Marva Marrow.

Expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts, Ambassador Velasco remarked,

“This is a sign of the collaboration between Nigeria and Spain and we are very grateful for this partnership.”

Similarly, Mr. Charles Smith of the FBI underscored the profound impact of the restitution on the victims, saying,

“This gives them complete closure and allows them to feel whole again. We really do appreciate and thank the EFCC.”

Florent Geel also conveyed his appreciation on behalf of the Swiss government, highlighting the integrity, professionalism, and international cooperation evident in the restitution process:

“Today’s restitution demonstrates the effectiveness of our joint efforts in making the digital world safer. Switzerland remains committed to working alongside Nigeria in safeguarding our respective citizens.”

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Umar Ahmed, lauded the EFCC’s achievements, adding that the restitution not only enhances Nigeria’s international credibility but also bolsters investor confidence. He acknowledged the support of Minister Yusuf Tuggar and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the anti-corruption drive, stating,

“This unprecedented development makes our work easier by significantly enhancing Nigeria’s credibility on the international scene. We fully support the EFCC in its mandate and commend this initiative.”