The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday arraigned an Austrian national, Kavlak Onal, before the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos over the alleged failure to declare foreign currencies valued at about N2.28 billion.
Onal was brought before Justice Yellim Bogoro on a two-count charge bordering on the non-declaration of $800,575 and €651,505, contrary to Nigeria’s money laundering laws. The EFCC prosecuting counsel, Bilikisu Buhari, told the court that the alleged offence was committed on December 13, 2025, during the defendant’s outward clearance at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, while he was travelling to Australia.
According to the prosecution, officers of the Anti-Money Laundering Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service arrested Onal after discovering the foreign currencies in his possession, which he allegedly failed to declare as required by law. Buhari stated that the offence contravenes Section 3(5) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, 2022, and is punishable under the same legislation.
When the charges were read to him, the defendant pleaded not guilty to both counts. Following his plea, the prosecution applied for the defendant to be remanded at the Nigerian Correctional Services pending the determination of the case.
However, the defence counsel, Sterlin Imhemuro, who led Temilehin Olushola, informed the court that a bail application had already been filed and duly served on the prosecution. He requested that the court remand his client in EFCC custody pending the hearing of the bail application.
In response, the prosecuting counsel confirmed receipt of the bail application earlier on Friday but asked for a short adjournment to enable her study the application and file a formal response.
After listening to both parties, Justice Bogoro adjourned the matter to January 16, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application and ordered that the defendant be remanded at a correctional centre facility pending the determination of his bail.
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Shouldnt the focus be on preventing such massive currency smuggling rather than just catching individuals after the fact?
Wow, do you think the punishment fits the crime? Or is it too harsh for a simple non-declaration offense? Lets discuss!
Wow, can we trust the EFCC to handle cases like this properly? Corruption seems to be everywhere. Thoughts?
I cant believe the audacity of some people. N2.28bn in undeclared currency? How is that even possible?! #Shocking #Unbelievable