In a major breakthrough in the fight against transnational financial crime, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has successfully extradited a Nigerian fugitive, Abubakar Aboki Muhammed, from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), culminating a year-long international investigation into a sophisticated multi-million dollar fraud scheme.
The extradition, coordinated by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, was carried out on Friday, May 23, 2025. It follows the issuance of a Red Notice against Muhammed, who was wanted in connection with multiple counts of Obtaining Money by False Pretence, Forgery, and Money Laundering. Muhammed was arrested in Dubai on April 15, 2025, and has now been handed over to Nigerian authorities to face prosecution.
The elaborate scheme dates back to July 2023, when a prominent Abuja-based international businessman filed a formal complaint against Muhammed. The suspect, posing as a legitimate shipping agent, reportedly entered into a fraudulent agreement to facilitate the freight and delivery of ten luxury vehicles from the UAE to Nigeria.
According to police investigators, Muhammed exploited the trust of the complainant and secured a contract worth $307,500.00 for the shipping and delivery of the vehicles. He directed that the payment be made to a third-party account at First City Monument Bank (FCMB), registered under the name of Anas Usaini, a resident of Kano State.
Unbeknownst to the victim, the transaction was part of a larger network of deceit. Investigations revealed that the account served as a conduit for laundering the illicit funds, which were subsequently funneled into financial operations in Dubai. After receiving the full payment, Muhammed provided the complainant with a forged bill of lading and then cut off all communication.
“This was a carefully orchestrated scheme,” a senior police investigator said under anonymity. “The forged shipping documents, third-party bank accounts, and cross-border transactions demonstrate the sophisticated nature of the fraud and the level of planning involved.”
Following a formal request by the Nigerian authorities, INTERPOL NCB Abuja collaborated with its counterpart in Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Police, and the Nigerian Consulate General in Dubai to trace, arrest, and extradite the suspect. The success of this operation is a testament to the growing capacity of Nigerian law enforcement to work seamlessly with international partners in combating global financial crimes.
In a statement released on Saturday, May 24, 2025, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, fCAI, praised the joint efforts that led to Muhammed’s extradition.
“This successful extradition marks a significant milestone in the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to combat transnational crime. The support and cooperation of the Dubai Police, INTERPOL NCB Abu Dhabi, and our diplomatic mission in Dubai were invaluable in this operation,” ACP Adejobi said.
He emphasized the firm commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, to ensure that no stone is left unturned in holding fraudsters accountable, regardless of their location.
Analysts say the successful extradition could set a precedent for future international cases involving Nigerian nationals implicated in cross-border criminal activities. With the rise of globalization and digital financial networks, such crimes are becoming increasingly complex and far-reaching.
“This case is a clear indicator of the evolving nature of fraud,” said Dr. Bisi Arogundade, “It underscores the importance of robust international legal frameworks, intelligence sharing, and diplomatic cooperation.”
Authorities have also hinted that further arrests may follow, as the laundering of funds through multiple parties suggests a wider network of accomplices. Investigations are ongoing into other individuals and entities that may have facilitated or benefited from the proceeds of the crime.
Abubakar Aboki Muhammed is expected to be arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja in the coming days. Legal experts anticipate that the prosecution will bring multiple charges under Nigeria’s Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, Money Laundering Prohibition Act, and sections of the Criminal Code.
If convicted, Muhammed could face decades in prison, asset forfeiture, and restitution orders.
The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for financial crimes and warned that the long arm of the law extends beyond national borders.
“This extradition sends a strong message to criminals operating under the illusion of safety abroad,” ACP Adejobi concluded. “The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring justice is served, no matter where suspects try to hide.”
Authorities have promised to intensify efforts in protecting citizens and businesses from fraudulent schemes, particularly those perpetrated under the guise of international commerce.
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