In a significant advance against transnational financial crime, the Nigeria Police Force has extradited a Nigerian fugitive, Abubakar Aboki Muhammed, from the United Arab Emirates to face charges in Nigeria. The extradition was executed on Friday, May 23, 2025, through the coordination of INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau in Abuja and international law enforcement partners.
Muhammed had been the subject of an INTERPOL Red Notice following investigations into allegations of obtaining money by false pretence, forgery, and money laundering. The case originated from a July 2023 complaint by an international businessman based in Abuja, who claimed that Muhammed impersonated a shipping agent and defrauded him of over $307,500.
According to police findings, Muhammed presented himself as a credible freight facilitator and assured the victim of his capacity to transport ten luxury vehicles from the UAE to Nigeria. After securing full payment via a third-party account registered to one Anas Usaini in Kano State, the funds were reportedly laundered through financial channels in Dubai. Muhammed is also alleged to have issued a forged bill of lading before severing contact with the victim.
Authorities tracked Muhammed to Dubai, where he was arrested on April 15, 2025. He was later returned to Nigeria for prosecution before the Federal High Court.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced the extradition on Saturday, commending the collaborative efforts of the Dubai Police, INTERPOL NCB Abu Dhabi, and the Nigerian Consulate General in Dubai. He described the operation as a milestone in the ongoing crackdown on cross-border fraud and financial crimes.
“This successful extradition marks a significant step in the ongoing fight against transnational financial crime,” the statement read. “The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, remains committed to collaborating with global partners to ensure that fugitives exploiting cross-border opportunities are brought to justice.”
Muhammed is expected to face multiple charges under Nigerian anti-fraud and anti-money laundering laws as the Police intensify efforts to bolster international cooperation in combating financial and cybercrimes.