EFCC Arrests 3 Suspects In Borno Over Naira Abuse

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested three persons over the alleged mutilation of the Naira following a viral video circulated on social media.

The suspects Adam Muhammad, Muhammad Muhammad and Bashir Musa were apprehended after footage emerged showing them using a ₦500 note to clean mucus from their noses.

In a statement issued on Thursday, EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said the video prompted an investigation that led to the identification and arrest of the trio within the Maiduguri metropolis.

According to the commission, the suspects are currently in custody at the EFCC’s Maiduguri detention facility, where investigations are ongoing.

“The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested three individuals over alleged Naira mutilation. The suspects Adam Muhammad, Muhammad Muhammad and Bashir Musa were arrested following a viral video on social media platforms in which they were seen cleaning mucus from their noses with a ₦500 note,” the statement said.

Oyewale added that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The arrest comes amid renewed enforcement of laws prohibiting the abuse and defacement of the Nigerian currency. In recent weeks, the EFCC has intensified its clampdown on acts considered to undermine the integrity of the Naira, including the recent arrest of Kannywood actor Saminu Inuwa over a similar allegation.

The commission said the ongoing efforts are part of its broader mandate to preserve the value and dignity of the national currency.