The Nigeria Police Force has successfully extradited a high-profile fraud suspect, Abubakar Muhammed, from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to face prosecution in Nigeria. Muhammed, who had been evading arrest since 2023, was brought back on Friday, May 23, following his arrest in Dubai on April 15.
According to a statement by the Police Spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, the extradition was the result of a coordinated effort involving INTERPOL NCB Abuja, INTERPOL Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Police, and the Nigerian Consulate General in Dubai.
Muhammed is wanted over allegations of defrauding an Abuja-based international businessman of $307,500. He allegedly posed as a shipping agent facilitating the importation of luxury vehicles from the UAE to Nigeria. Investigations revealed that Muhammed secured the contract under false pretenses and collected payment through a third-party account in FCMB belonging to a Kano resident, Anas Usaini. The funds were subsequently laundered through transactions in Dubai.
“The case originates from a report filed in July 2023 by the defrauded businessman. Muhammed misrepresented himself, secured the contract to handle payments and shipment of ten high-end vehicles valued at $307,500, and after receiving the payment, issued a forged bill of lading before becoming unreachable,” Adejobi explained.
He added that Muhammed will be prosecuted at the Federal High Court, marking a significant victory in Nigeria’s fight against transnational financial crime.
Muhammed’s extradition underscores the collaborative efforts of Nigerian and international law enforcement agencies in tackling cross-border fraud and ensuring that perpetrators face justice.
