The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into Kavlak Onal, an Austrian national detained at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, for allegedly attempting to carry undeclared foreign currency valued at over N2.28 billion.
According to a press release from the EFCC’s official X account on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, Onal was intercepted on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, while preparing to board an Emirates flight to Dubai. Customs officials discovered $800,575 and €651,505 hidden in his luggage, despite the suspect’s denial of carrying any foreign currency.
The Head of the EFCC’s Foreign Exchange Malpractices Section (FEMS), Adejumo Richard, representing Executive Chairman Ola Olukoyede, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for their cooperation and diligence in the operation. “Your dedication to duty and teamwork have been vital in advancing our shared objectives,” he said.
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The seizure took place around 2:45 p.m. at Departure Terminal 2, with Onal identified by passport number AP0084116. The EFCC has confirmed that a full investigation has commenced, and appropriate charges are expected to follow as the agency continues its crackdown on illicit foreign currency movements at Nigerian ports of entry.
This incident underscores ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to enforce foreign exchange laws and curb illegal smuggling of hard currency.
