The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has uncovered an alleged gold smuggling network at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, arresting Ali Baffa, an Aviation Security (AVSEC) Inspector I, alongside Aushabu Nasidi and Mukhtar Muhammad Dan Zaria over the attempted illegal export of gold bars valued at more than N4.4 billion.
The arrests followed a surveillance operation carried out by operatives of the EFCC’s Kano Zonal Directorate as part of a nationwide crackdown on the illicit movement of solid minerals and foreign currencies through Nigeria’s international airports.
According to the commission, the operation was conducted on June 11, 2026, in line with a directive by the EFCC Chairman ordering all zonal commands to intensify monitoring of airport activities linked to economic crimes.
Investigators alleged that Baffa concealed 22.2 kilograms of unprocessed gold bars, estimated to be worth over N4.4 billion, inside his trousers in a bid to evade airport security screening before handing the consignment to passengers travelling abroad for illegal export.
The anti-graft agency described the concealment method as a deliberate attempt to circumvent security protocols and facilitate the smuggling of Nigeria’s mineral resources out of the country. Related News South African businesses breathe easier as fuel cost fears begin to fade FCCPC airtime credit enforcement tests Tinubu’s vision for strong institutions 2026 FIFA World Cup: Canada chase first win against Bosnia-Herzegovina
