Nigerian police extradite fugitive from UAE over alleged $307,500 fraud

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the extradition of a fugitive, Abubakar Muhammed, from the United Arab Emirates following a successful international operation.

In a statement released on Saturday, the police revealed that Muhammed was extradited on Friday after an INTERPOL Red Notice was issued by the National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja. His return marks a significant step in the pursuit of justice for alleged financial crimes.

According to authorities, the case against Muhammed began in July 2023 when an Abuja-based businessman filed a petition accusing him of obtaining funds under false pretence, forgery, and money laundering, among other serious offenses.

A statement by Police spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the fugitive pretended to be a shipping agent and was able to secure a contract of $307,500 to facilitate payments and freight of ten high-end vehicles from UAE to Nigeria.

“After establishing trust, Muhammed fraudulently received the full payment through a third-party account at FCMB belonging to Anas Usaini, a Kano resident, which was subsequently used for money laundering activities in Dubai.

“Upon receipt of the payment, Muhammed provided the complainant with a forged bill of lading for the vehicles and subsequently became uncontactable. He was apprehended in Dubai on April 15, 2025, and has been extradited to Nigeria to face prosecution at the Federal High Court, marking a significant success in the ongoing fight against transnational financial crime,” Adejobi stated.

He said that following the success of the matter so far, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has commended the efforts of the Dubai police to process the Muhammed’s extradition.

He also assured that the police will remain committed to working with international agencies and law to combat cross-border criminal activities.