Passengers Caught With Over $6.1 Million Cash at Lagos Airport, Handed Over to EFCC

Security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA1) in Lagos have arrested several passengers found in possession of more than $6.1 million in cash, sparking suspicions of money laundering.

According to reports by Premium Times, the group—described as a team of young men—was intercepted at the domestic terminal while attempting to board an Aero Contractors flight.

Multiple security sources familiar with the case said the passengers are suspected to be couriers for a politically exposed person (PEP). However, their identities and intended destination have not yet been disclosed.

The arrest was made by officers of the Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit, who became suspicious after routine screening revealed the large amount of foreign currency being transported.

A senior AVSEC official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the suspects have since been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further interrogation and investigation.

“We are still working with the EFCC to unravel the full details,” the official stated.

This latest arrest draws parallels with a 2020 incident, when Nigerian Customs operatives at the same airport seized $8,065,612 concealed in 20 wraps inside a coaster bus at the tarmac. The operation, conducted under the leadership of then Comptroller-General Col. Hameed Ali (retd.), was based on intelligence that uncovered the attempted smuggling of foreign currency out of the country.

The EFCC is expected to release more details as investigations progress.